Cayman islands Magazine

OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE CAYMAN ISLANDS TOURISM ASSOCIATION

2017

PROPERTY OF THE HOTEL. PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE.

/ SHOPPING / DINING / ACTIVITIES / NIGHTLIFE / FAMILY FUN /

2017 EDITION Published for the Cayman Islands Tourism Association

PRESIDENT Kenneth Hydes EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Tiffany Dixon-Ebanks EDITORIAL BOARD Gaetan Babin, Rita Estevanovich, Melissa Ladley, Ruth Myles, Katie O’Neill PUBLISHED BY

PUBLISHER Peter D. Savill EDITOR Rebecca Junck

ART DIRECTOR Chelsea Vaccaro

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Kathryn Willman

SALES Cindy Oostvogels, Rebecca Junck

ACCOUNTS MANAGER Debra Jackson

ADVERTISING SERVICES Taylor Vaughn

FINANCE DIRECTOR Paul Lewis CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joe Avary, Roxane Boonstra, Nasaria Budal, Juliette (Heath) Ebanks, Health City Cayman Islands, Rebecca Junck, Neil van Niekerk, Stellerie Noyons, Katie O’Neill, Keith Sahm, Jude Scott, Jan Tomkins PHOTOGRAPHY J. Kevin Foltz CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Catalin Alexa, Steve Allen, Michael Bernard, Nick Buckley, Camana Bay, Capital Realty, The Cayman Islands National Archive Photographic Collections, Cathy Church, Stephen Clarke Photography, Kara Coe – GIS Marketing & Communication Cayman Islands Government, Irene Corti, Stephan Cotrelle, Robert Dalton, Rebecca Davidson, Natalia Martin de Pablos, Discovery Cove, Dolphin Discovery, Shankar Ebanks, Flowers Sea Swim, Grand Cayman Villas & Condos, Health City Cayman Islands, Jim Hellemn, Heather Holt, Island Jewellers, iStock, Jodi Jacobson, Rebecca Junck, John Kennedy, Kieferpix, King’s Sports Centre, Le Soleil d’Or, Heather McLaughlin, Tony Mendez, Bruce Miller, Miralex, Marc Montacchio, National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, Capt. Jimmy Nelson, Kevin Panizza, Jaime Pharr, Johann Prinsloo, Oris, Albert Pego, Picture This, Pirates Week Festival Office, Don Riddle, Aldington Scott, Submarines Cayman, Flavio Vallenari, Neil van Niekerk, Predrag Vuckovic, West Bay Loop, Bryan Winter with Deep Blue Images, Melissa Wolfe GRACE BYERS PHOTO Photography by Gilles Toucas, Stylist: Adena Rohatiner, Makeup: Anthony Merante for fr8me Agency, Hair: Michael Kanyon for Celestine Agency Visit Cayman Islands is distributed in the Cayman Islands by Luis Rivers.

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Welcome Message

FROM THE GOVERNOR On behalf of the Cayman Islands, I would like to welcome you to our wonderful shores. Whether you are visiting Grand Cayman, Little Cayman or Cayman Brac, I hope that your visit here will be one to remember.

One of the main attractions for visitors to the Cayman Islands is the promise of relaxing and unwinding on our beautiful beaches, which are among the best in the world. hese exquisite white sand beaches are perfect for getting away from it all, complemented by the stunning view of our pristine turquoise sea. his beautiful clear water is home to a multitude of coral canyons, tropical ish and many dive sites, which provide perfect conditions for divers, and is the reason why the Cayman Islands continues to attract diving enthusiasts from around the world. You will also ind other exciting watersports and activities such as parasailing, sailing, swimming with dolphins and stingrays, and snorkelling.

Cayman has a strong cultural history which you can explore at our museums and art galleries. Learn about Caymanian history by visiting the elegant Pedro St. James, Cayman’s premier historic site with authentic relics from past generations, as well as a 4D theatre. Cayman’s National Gallery is an inclusive gathering place where you can embrace the diverse cultures and traditions of the arts. he National Museum was once used to house the police, library, customs, a school as well as the prison! he Museum now contains an interesting collection of local artefacts, artwork and information. For an unforgettable experience of our lora and fauna, the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park exhibits a number of plant and animal species, including the endangered indigenous Blue Iguana who can be found enjoying the sun in its protected surroundings.

During your stay, please be sure to sample our excellent cuisine prepared by some of the best chefs in the region. I hope your visit will be one that you will treasure and that you will join our many visitors who decide to return to Cayman, time and time again.

Helen Kilpatrick, CB Governor of the Cayman Islands

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Discover Our

ISLAND PARADISE Welcome to the Cayman Islands! hank you for choosing the Cayman Islands as your preferred vacation destination. Your idyllic escape awaits through a diverse ofering of experiences. Find Your Caymankind in adventure, romantic sunsets or moonlit walk, enjoy ine cuisine and experience Caymankind hospitality our people, the Cayman Islands have it all.

Our three islands each have unique oferings that combine to create unforgettable experiences. Grand Cayman’s natural beauty, cultural attractions and modern amenities provide the perfect balance of awe and excitement.

A trip to Grand Cayman would not be complete without a visit to Stingray City, home to more than two-dozen Atlantic Southern Stingrays with warm Caymanian personalities. On land, you will ind historical Pedro St. James, the Cayman Islands’ oldest structure and birthplace of our government. You should also see the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, home to our national lower, the Wild Banana Orchid and our indigenous Blue Iguanas.

Hopefully you’ll take some time to explore our Sister Islands – Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. hey are perfect for those looking for a tranquil getaway. Cayman Brac ofers an adventurous vacation, with over 100 caves and an abundance of wildlife to explore. Little Cayman, the smallest island, is famous for its impressive underwater life and peaceful environment – and over 20,000 red footed boobies that far outnumber the locals.

Our cultural events throughout the year promise there is always something to do. Whether you want to eat food prepared by the world’s best chefs at our Cayman Cookout; dance in our streets at Cayman Carnival Batabano or wear your buccaneer best for Our National Festival Pirates Week – Cayman is full of opportunities to make lifelong memories.

Again, welcome to our beloved isle and I hope to welcome you back in the near future.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Rosa Harris Director of Tourism, The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism

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A Message

FROM CITA he Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) is proud to bring you the second issue of “Visit Cayman Islands” and wish to extend a warm ‘CaymanKind’ welcome to all visitors to our three islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac.

CITA as a non-proit tourism association represents over 200 private business members including hotels, condos/villas, water sports, restaurants, transportation, attractions, cruise and allied (other businesses associated with our tourism product). Do feel free to visit the CITA website at www. cita.ky to check out some wonderful things to do at our member businesses.

During your stay, you are very likely to experience the best of sun, sea, activities and a warm appreciation from our people. his publication “Visit Cayman Islands” is illed with articles and information on things to do and experience during your stay, and when you return home, note there is also a digital version of this magazine on the home page of the CITA website www.cita.ky So, after you depart, you can still lip through the digital pages… while looking forward to your next trip – back to Cayman!

While you are here, do take in the sights; interact; visit our attractions.

If you’re a nature lover, then you should add Mastic Trail to your list of things to do. Explore our Starish Point where you are able to see star ish in knee-deep water. Dive into our underwater wrecks such as the Kittiwake, known for her most memorable and novel experiences. Swim with our stingrays, and dine in our exquisite restaurants.

And … if you are here in January, don’t forget to attend the annual Taste of Cayman Food & Drink Festival (January 28th, 2017). You will be impressed with the food, wine, entertainment, and a spectacular ireworks display. Come watch the best chefs and watch them create favourite local and international dishes. I am sure you will want to come back for more.

We are proud to share what we term “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean” experiences, here in the Cayman Islands.

Our Visitor Centre is located at 1320 West Bay Road/Seven Mile Beach, in a picturesque little Caymanian cottage. Look for the Turtle!

We are happy for you to pop in to say ‘hi’, and ask for directions and recommendations on what to do during your stay with us.

Do enjoy the rest of your visit. Relax in the beautiful Cayman Islands.

Sincerely,

Tiffany Dixon-Ebanks Executive Director, CITA

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CONTENTS SEVEN MILE BEACH

CATBOAT

82

74 STINGRAY

52

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WELCOME TO THE CAYMAN ISLANDS

CONNECT WITH NATURE

A hree Island Paradise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Flora, Fauna and Unforgettable Beauty . . . . . . . . 58

HISTORY

ON LAND

Caribs, Columbus and Colonial Life . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Sightseeing and he Best hings To Do On Land . . 62

EXPLORING LITTLE CAYMAN

ON THE WATER

Sand and Solitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

he Best hings To Do On the Water . . . . . . . . . 74

EXPLORING CAYMAN BRAC

DIVING

A Nature Lovers’ Paradise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Reefs and Wall Dives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

EXPLORING GRAND CAYMAN

ARTS, CULTURE & EVENTS

Something for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

A Guide To Caymanian Culture And Events . . . . 88

BEACHES

SHOPPING

A Guide To he Best Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Made In Cayman And Duty-Free . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

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JUNIOR CARNIVAL

88 CAMANA BAY A Town With All he Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

118

DINING & NIGHTLIFE Food And Fun After Dark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

WELLNESS & WEDDINGS Medical Tourism and Relaxation . . . . . . . . . . . . 132 Weddings in Paradise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

138

REAL ESTATE & FINANCE Investing In Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 Development and Regulation of Banking . . . . . . 149

MAPS Cayman Brac and Little Cayman . . . . . . . . . . . . 151 Grand Cayman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Shopping, Dining And Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

DIRECTORY OF CITA MEMBERS . . . . . . . 156 USEFUL INFORMATION What You Need To Know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

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CONTRIBUTORS JULIETTE (HEATH) EBANKS Juliette Heath Ebanks is originally from the UK, but has been living and working in Cayman since 1999 and is proud to call the Island her home. As well as her passion for planning weddings and events, she is also devoted to helping re-home stray dogs on Island and is the author of a series of children’s books.

If you have a wedding or event to plan she is standing by to assist.

NASARIA BUDAL

JAN TOMKINS

Nasaria Budal is a marketing manager at Dart Realty Cayman Limited, a property development and management services company. She has more than 12 years’ professional experience in tourism, retail and inancial services and holds a B.S. in Marketing.

She writes for Visit Cayman Islands as well as Skies, the Cayman Airways in-light magazine, and writes a travel blog – Shells, Sand and a Girl named Naz, an insider’s guide to the best things to do, see and try while in the Cayman Islands.

Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Jan Tomkins moved to Grand Cayman in 2001. An energetic and enthusiastic real estate broker with true ‘Southern Hospitality’. Jan established Azure Realty Ltd. in February 2008 in order to bring a fresh approach to the real estate industry. Jan was awarded by the agents of CIREBA in recognition of her high level of professionalism and consideration towards fellow associates “Agent of he Year 2012”. Her key to success is Integrity.

KATIE O’NEILL Katie O’Neill, Integrated Communications Manager for Bodden Holdings Ltd and its companies, earned a Master of Media Arts degree from USC. She has a passion for photography, creative design, VR and today’s new media. A founding member of CULL, Katie enjoys diving, culling and creating new lionish recipes for CULL’s Kitchen.

J. KEVIN FOLTZ J. Kevin Foltz is a wanderer. After having successful commercial photography studios in Nashville, Tennessee and Lima, Peru, he began specializing in location work for the custom publishing industry in the Caribbean and Latin America. Recently completing a six-year residency at ArtCenter South Florida in Miami Beach, Kevin recently relocated to Charleston, S.C. where he continues producing art and photography projects through monteisla.com.

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JUDE SCOTT Jude Scott has been the Chief Executive Oicer of Cayman Finance since December 2014 and is a former Partner of Ernst & Young and former Global CEO of Maples and Calder.

He retired as an Audit Partner in 2008 after spending over 23 years with Ernst & Young where he specialised in the audits of investment funds, banks and insurance companies.

WELCOME to the Cayman Islands

Awards & Accolades The Cayman Islands have garnered an impressive list of destination awards from notable organizations such as TripAdvisor, U.S. News & World Report, Conde Nast Traveler, Yahoo! Travel, Parents Magazine, Caribbean Journal, and Scuba Diving magazine. Here are just a few of the accolades received the past three years.

Forbes 2012 World’s Friendliest Countries, #1 Cayman Islands U.S. News and World Report #1 Best Beaches in the World (Seven Mile Beach) #2 Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean #2 Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean #6 Best Caribbean Honeymoons #7 Best Islands in the World TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice Awards #3 Top 10 Islands of the Caribbean #3 Top 25 Best Beaches in the World (Seven Mile Beach) Parents Magazine One of the 10 Best Caribbean Destinations for Families Caribbean Journal Best Dive Resorts in the Caribbean. #1 Little Cayman Beach Resort #8 Sunset House, Grand Cayman Scuba Diving Magazine – 2016 Top 100 Readers Choice Awards Caribbean/Atlantic region: 1st Places Best Overall Destinations Best U/W Photography Best Marine Environment Best Wall Diving Best Visibility Best Advanced Diving 2nd Places Best Overall Diving Best Macro Diving Best Cave, Cavern and Grotto Diving Best Wreck Diving

WELCOME

STINGRAY CITY

CAYMAN BRAC BLUFF

SHORTY AT CAYMAN BRAC AIRPORT

BATABANO PIRATES WEEK

DOLPHIN DISCOVERY

MANGROVES

BOTANIC PARK

WELCOME

SCHOOL OF GRUNTS

JUVENILE YELLOW TAIL DAMSELFISH

BIRD OF PARADISE AT BOTANIC PARK

WEST INDIAN WHISTLING DUCK

CAYMAN PARROT

SOUTHERN STINGRAYS CURLY TAILED LIZARD

FRIGATE BIRD SILVER THATCH AT BOTANIC PARK

SEA TURTLE

BLUE TANG JUVENILE

HISTORY CARIBS, COLUMBUS & COLONIAL LIFE

HOLDING A TURTLE 1938 MAKING ROPE 1938

COURT HOUSE IN CAYMAN BRAC 1910

GEORGE TOWN HARBOUR 1930 S WATTLE HOUSE IN BODDEN TOWN 1925-1928

ALL PHOTOS FROM CAYMAN ISLANDS NATIONAL ARCHIVE PHOTOGRAPHIC COLLECTIONS

HIS TORY

FORT GEORGE

William Eden, the builder of Pedro St. James

COLUMBUS On his fourth and final voyage to the New World, Christopher Columbus was blown of course on his way to Hispaniola and observed two very small, low islands seemingly covered with thousands of turtles. Because of the abundance of green sea turtles, he named the two islands Las Tortugas (Spanish for he Turtles). he two islands he spotted were Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, commonly referred to as the Sister Islands, and it was this ample supply of turtle that made the islands a popular calling place for ships sailing through the Caribbean.

By 1530 the islands were being referred to as Caymanas, a Carib Indian word meaning marine crocodiles who had roamed the islands in the distant past. On Sir Francis Drake’s voyage in 1585, he reported seeing “great serpents called Caymanas, like large lizards, which are edible.”

THE FIRST CAYMANIANS At the time that Columbus spotted the Cayman Islands, there were almost a million Arawak, Taino, and Carib Indians living in this region of the Caribbean. However, historical and archaeological studies show

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that the islands remained uninhabited until the 1600’s when the irst known settlers arrived in the Sister Islands, Mr. Bodden and Mr. Watler. Over the coming years, a variety of people settled on the islands, including shipwrecked passengers, refugees from the Spanish Inquisition, deserters from Oliver Cromwell’s army in Jamaica, slaves, and pirates.

LIFE UNDER THE UNITED KINGDOM he Cayman Islands became a possession of the United Kingdom with the signing in 1670 of the Treaty of Madrid. Soon after, settlers started to arrive, and in 1734 the Governor of Jamaica gave the irst royal land grant in Grand Cayman. In 1802 the irst census was taken showing a population on Grand Cayman of just 933 people.

Although the islands were a dependency of Jamaica, governmental control was lax, and the islands became used to a certain amount of self-government. And in 1962 when Jamaica achieved independence from the United Kingdom, Cayman chose to remain under British control with its own Governor, selected by the UK, assuming the responsibilities formerly assigned to the

Governor of Jamaica.

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory which operates as a parliamentary democracy and is one of the last non-self-governing territories in the world. he island’s domestic afairs are governed by a 20-seat Legislative Assembly, of which 18 members are democratically elected by the citizens of the islands every four years. Of these elected MLA’s, seven are chosen to serve in the Cabinet as government ministers and one is appointed by the Governor as the Premier.

ARRRR! During the early days of settlement, it was rumoured that pirates would often visit the islands to take advantage of their sparse population, the abundance of turtle meat and fresh water, and their ideal location on the route frequently used by Spanish treasure ships returning to Spain. Cayman Brac also provided much-needed shelter for the Buccaneers, who were rumoured to have used the natural caves in the bluf to hide their stolen booty. Some of the more infamous pirates to have sailed in Cayman waters include Blackbeard, Captain Morgan, George Lowther, and Edward Lowe.

Every November the islands celebrate their heritage and relive their pirate past with Pirates Week. Starting when local and international ‘pirates’ storm Hog Sty Bay in George Town aboard the Jolly Roger pirate ship, the festival includes parades, an underwater treasure hunt, concerts, district heritage days, and more

across all three islands. On the last day, the locals reclaim the islands, as the governor sentences the Pirates.

SALT WATER IN THEIR BLOOD he people of the Cayman Islands have always had a strong maritime culture.

Many of the irst settlers of the islands were turtle ishermen, who sold part of their catch to passing vessels and kept the rest to feed their families. Over the centuries turtling continued to drive the economy along with shipbuilding and ishing as the islands weren’t suitable for large-scale agricultural plantations like other Caribbean islands.

The economy remained tied to the sea until the mid-1950’s, with the primary industries continuing to be shipbuilding, fishing, and turtling.

As the forces driving the economy began to change, Caymanians love for the sea never wavered and is still very much a part of everyday life. It can be seen everywhere, from the pop-up ish markets along the roadside where local ishermen sell their daily catch to the traditional Sunday family boat trips and the world-class ishing tournaments.

21ST CENTURY CAYMAN In only a few short decades the Cayman Islands have gone from a small population with an economy based on subsistence to a large multicultural society enjoying one

RANKINE HOUSE

of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean. here are now over 60,000 people from over 135 nationalities calling these islands home, and two of the biggest forces behind the rapid development of the islands are the inancial and tourism industries.

The financial industry in the Cayman Islands up until the 1950’s was almost non-existent. However, with the opening of the irst commercial bank and new legislation designed to encourage the growth of the industry, the inancial sector boomed and put the Cayman Islands on the map as an international inancial centre.

Legend says King George III repaid the heroism and bravery of the Caymanian people during the Wreck of the Ten Sails by bestowing freedom from taxation on the Islanders. he real reason is a lot less romantic and involves a series of laws enacted by the government in the 1960s. Currently, there is no direct taxation in the Cayman Islands. Instead, the government receives the majority of its revenue from indirect taxation, duties on most imported goods, licensing fees and stamp duty. he tourism industry which started with the irst cruise ship visit in 1937, now sees over two million visitors a year by air and sea to the three islands. From small dive hotels to large 5-star resorts, the islands ill every guest’s desire for a vacation in paradise.

Key Dates 1503

1937

Christopher Columbus first sights the Cayman Islands on May 10

First cruise ship visits Grand Cayman, starting the tourism industry on the islands

1658 First known settlers arrive in Little Cayman and Cayman Brac

1670 Spain cedes the islands to the English under the Treaty of Madrid

1790 Fort George constructed in present-day George Town

1953 Barclays Bank opens as the first commercial bank in the country

1959 Cayman receives its first written constitution, which grants the right to vote to women

1962 Cayman separates from Jamaica after its independence

1794

1976

Wreck of the Ten Sail occurs off East End

The first Pirates Week Festival is held

1831

HM Queen Elizabeth II visits, the first visit to the country by a reigning monarch

Decision to form an elected assembly taken at Pedro Castle, followed by the first democratic election

1863 The Cayman Islands become a dependency of Jamaica and are administrated by an appointed commissioner

1983

1994 HM Queen Elizabeth II visits Grand Cayman to open the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Park

2015 The population of the Cayman Islands reaches 60,413

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Exploring LITTLE

CAYMAN SAND AND SOLITUDE Little Cayman is the very definition of a tropical island getaway, where the iguana population is ten times the human population and everyone smiles and waves as you drive past.

E XPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N

BOOBY RESERVE CATBOAT LITTLE CAYMAN MUSEUM

he smallest and least developed of the 3 Cayman Islands, Little Cayman is just 10 miles wide by 1 mile long. he island is home to idyllic beaches, Sister Isles Rock Iguanas (almost 2,000), bird sanctuaries (home to 20,000 Red Footed Boobies plus over 25 other migratory species), mangrove forests, salt ponds, lagoons, and some of the best diving on the planet.

Being tucked away in the far reaches of the Caribbean have helped the island keep its natural beauty untainted, and many of the residents and businesses have gone green and started conservation initiatives to make certain it stays that way.

The island is home to the largest population of critically endangered Sister Isles Rock Iguanas, and locals like divemaster cum conservationist Michael Vallee spend their free time working to keep out the invasive green iguana population through the Green Iguana B’Gonna program. he speed limit on all roads is 25 MPH to keep the meandering land crabs and sun-lounging Sister Isles Rock Iguanas safe. And the island’s Central Caribbean Marine Institute is working on maritime conservation projects such as the Little Cayman Coral Nursery and the Whole Island Lionish Defense (in partnership with the University of Florida and the island’s diving community).

If you’re looking for a party Caribbean holiday, this isn’t the island for you. If you’re looking to experience untouched nature everywhere you look, relax under the tropical sun, and be greeted by everyone like a long lost friend, this IS the place for you.

You can stay for a few days or make a day trip. Cayman Airways [949-8200] has frequent lights every day and it’s only half an hour away.

T

THINGS TO DO ON LAND LITTLE CAYMAN MUSEUM he newly upgraded Little

Cayman Museum in Blossom Village gives visitors insight into

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LITTLE CAYMAN BEACH RESORT

the island’s 500-year plus history. he museum was founded

by Linton Tibbetts to preserve and share the rich heritage and culture of the island and includes numerous exhibits about the people, culture, and maritime history that have helped to make the island what it is today. Stop by and learn more thorough archival and underwater photos, documents, and personal and maritime artefacts. he museum is only open during midafternoon, but it’s an excellent way to get out of the sun or rain for a few hours.

SCOOTEN SCOOTERS

BOOBY POND RESERVE he Booby Pond Nature Reserve is a designated RAMSAR site and protects over 20,000 Red-footed Booby birds, making it the largest colony in the Caribbean. he best times to see the birds in action are early morning as the boobies go ishing far out at sea, and when they return just before sunset being chased by the Reserve’s 350 Frigate birds who are trying to steal their catch.

THE GLADYS B. HOWARD LITTLE CAYMAN DISTRICT NATIONAL TRUST VISITORS CENTRE he Centre is dedicated

to the education and preservation of Little Cayman’s natural environment and features an interpretive centre, library services, and a gift store where you can purchase local crafts and delicious homemade ice cream (said to be the best in the country). here’s also an elevated observation deck, complete with binoculars, overlooking the Booby Pond Reserve. he Visitors Centre is open Monday – Friday 3pm5pm and entry is free.

HIRE A SCOOTER Little Cayman is the smallest of the islands, which means you can tour it using non-traditional means. Ditch the rental car and see the island on a Yamaha scooter. A blast to drive and easy to learn, you’ll be zipping from the Salt Rock Nature Trail to Point O’Sand in no time. Just remember that iguanas have the right of way.

Call 345-916-4971 to book your scooter from Scooten Scooters.

SALT ROCK NATURE TRAIL Located on the Western tip of the

island, the Salt Rock Nature Trail follows a historical footpath

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E XPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N

TARPON LAKE ROCK IGUANA OWEN ISLAND

from Blossom Village to the north shore.

You’ll see many Sister Isles Rock Iguanas, migratory birds, orchids, butterlies, and tropical plants along the trail as well as abandoned phosphate mines and a railway track that was once used by donkeys pulling heavy carts of salt-rock. It’s rustic, so wear sturdy walking shoes and mosquito repellant, and bring water.

SIT ON THE BEACH he tranquillity and

calmness on Little Cayman is a scarcity in today’s hectic world. Kick of your lip lops, take a seat on the beach and soak it in.

THINGS TO DO ON THE WATER

looking to relax and unwind, or maybe a bit of an adventure grab a kayak, a cooler, and head for your deserted island.

FISHING he undeveloped beauty of Little Cayman has allowed the marine ecosystem to remain both abundant and diverse with numerous species. You can catch and release Tarpon in the inland saltwater Tarpon Pond, or head to the sea for lats and ofshore ishing for Marlin, Billish, Barracuda, and more.

Southern Cross Club [948-1099] has the only full-service ishing facility on the island, with experienced and professional guides and an extensive range of rental equipment.

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SWIM AND SUNBATHE Located on the

eastern tip of the island, the desolation and white sand beaches of Point O’Sand are the picture of solitude. On any given day you may be the only visitors on the beach with the outline of Cayman Brac of in the distance. he waters are crystal clear and shallow near shore, making it an ideal place to bask in the sunshine while keeping cool.

Be sure to bring a cooler with drinks and snacks because you won’t want to leave.

DIVING See article on page 38.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

KITESURFING Imagine flying over the water with little more than a kite and small surfboard. he clean winds coming from the sea, and the calm, shallow waters make South Hole Sound the perfect place

• Little Cayman Agricultural Show – April 29th • Annual Little Cayman Cook-off – November • Little Cayman Pirates Weekend – November

KAYAK TO OWEN ISLAND Discover the

feeling of being on a desolate island. Located a quick 15-minute kayak trip from South Hole Sound, Owen Island is an uninhabited island with no buildings and usually no people, just lush natural vegetation. If you’re

to learn or practice kitesuring. Lost Boys Kitesuring [948-1099] is located on the shore and offers lessons for beginners to advanced as well as all the equipment you’ll need. Take your island tour to a new level and get a bird’s eye view.

ILE F O PR

CENTRAL CARIBBEAN Marine Institute Leading the future of our oceans.

I

n 1998 the Central Caribbean Marine Institute was created to protect the future of the world’s coral reefs through education, research, and conservation.

Currently, the institute is located in the Little Cayman Research Centre (LCRC) on the undeveloped shores of Little Cayman. he island’s pristine and diverse marine ecosystem provides great insight into coral reefs on a global scale. Also, the reefs around the island are one of the few in the world showing regeneration, ofering excellent research opportunities into important issues like marine protection, climate change, and ocean acidiication.

Since 2003 when the CCMI broke ground in Little Cayman, HRH Prince Edward has been the royal patron, helping to promote the non-proit organisation and its research. he Prince has visited the Little Cayman facility ive times since then, including in 2016 when he visited the Coral Nursery and in 2007 when he launched the Ocean Literacy programme. hey have an ever-expanding portfolio of research programmes happening at the LCRC, so much so that they’re seeking additional funding for additions to their facilities. Some of their longest-running research programmes include: CCMI Conservation Projects (Coral Nursery, Lionish Control), Coral Reef Early Warning System (CREWS) and Research Experience for Undergraduates (Little Cayman REU). hey also have Citizen Science programmes that allow anyone with a passion for conservation the chance to contribute and have a meaningful impact on the fate of their reefs.

At the core of their mission is the commitment to ensuring that 100% of children in the Cayman Islands are ocean literate. To this end they ofer a variety of educational programs for K-12 students, allowing them to learn actively in the classroom and the water using traditional and new methods like an ROV and drone. Realising that not all schools in Grand Cayman have the means to come to them, soon they’ll be coming to the schools with a classroom on wheels. hey’re willing to do whatever it takes to make sure the island’s future generation of ocean caretakers learn about the sea around them.

Interested in learning more about CCMI? hey have 1-hour tours of their facilities on Fridays.

PETER HILLENBRAND Businessman, Diver and Environmentalist Born in Indiana into a large family of scuba divers, Peter Hillenbrand grew up being his dad’s dive and fishing buddy from the age of eight. He soon entered the family’s successful manufacturing business but found it did not suit him. So, in 1993 he quit the family business to go back to school to study marine biology.

Over the years, he had visited Little Cayman and the Southern Cross Club a few times with his dad, which at the time was a run-down f i s hi n g l o d g e in a fantastic location. When the resort came up for sale, he saw its potential, quickly abandoned his marine biology studies, bought the resort, and moved to Little Cayman full-time.

Lit tle Cayman is the q uinte s sential C ar ib bean island, undeveloped and rustic, and back in 1995, it was even more so, with a much smaller population and fewer resources available. Rebuilding one of the oldest resorts in the Caribbean would prove to be a challenge, but Peter persevered and made it into one of the top diving and fishing resorts in the western

hemisphere. The resort reflects its owner, a unique combination of easygoing, hardworking, and environmentally aware - known as Barefoot Elegance.

It’s been a long road since he took over the resort and he admits he almost gave up a few times. But along the way he’s become a stalwart of the island’s and nation’s tourism and conservation efforts; in 20 07 he was awarded the National Conservation Award and in 2016 the Lifetime Achievement Award by the C ay man Islands Tourism Association.

Peter is also a member of the National Trust, the Sister Islands Tourism Association, and a pioneer of the Central Caribbean Marine Institute. In his ‘spare’ time he runs a successful 250-acre working farm in rural Indiana that includes an award-winning farmto-table restaurant, a butcher shop and a popular event centre.

When you find yourself in Little Cayman, stop by the Southern Cross Club for a drink and ask Peter to tell you about the time the Governor stopped by for a visit.

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FRENCH GRUNTS

E XPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N

DIVING LITTLE CAYMAN My Way

By Neil van Niekerk

Little Cayman is special to me; I can’t deny it. I dived here once while working on Grand Cayman. I spent the next few years trying to line up work permits and job openings to come back, and it was worth it! I can safely say that I’ve dived all Little Cayman has to ofer over the years, from the world-famous Bloody Bay Marine Park to the lesser known and yet-to-be-named anchor drops around the island. he island’s beauty is boundless to me, and I hope I can inspire you to see it for yourself.

MIXING BOWL (THREE FATHOM WALL) Few places in the world match the drop-of to the distant depths of the Cayman Trench beginning at only 18 feet! Imagine doing your Safety Stop on the edge of a 6000’ drop-of wall. It’s equally accessible to both novices and experts, ofering sights that are limitless.

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Swim-throughs to the wall, yellowhead jawfish rotating their eggballs in their mouths, spotted eagle rays in the sand lats, Caribbean reef sharks in the blue with schools of bermuda chub all about in the shallows enjoying the light.

What more could you want?

RANDY’S GAZEBO he pin here is at 23’ which sits right on the edge of the drop-of. he wall makes a natural indentation, but if you look closely, there’s a small hole at the top going straight down. This is the famed chimney, it looks tight but drops from 23’ to about 85’ and opens up into the alcove in the wall, spitting you out between black coral stands.

A short swim to the East is the world-famous Gazebo, named after local divemaster Randy Harwood. It’s natural coral archway with large barrel sponges marking the entrance and gorgonians

DIVER KISSING A NASSAU GROUPER

BLUE STURGEON FISH

draping the inside make for great photos as divers swim past on the outside!

Right below the boat, and very close to the chimney, is a second swim-through that pops you back on top of the wall in a myriad of tiny bubbles bleeding through the coral to the surface.

and drops from 25’ into the black, leaving you in awe. Swim just a little away into the blue and turn around to see the magniicence! Both seahorses and frogish have been seen here so take a look at what might be around. Lappy, the now world-famous Nassau grouper, lives here and will often greet you and be the star in your pictures, whether you want it or not!

LEA LEA’S LOOKOUT his site is a deinite favourite among many local dive staf. A short swim from the pin at 25’ is a large hole in the top of the wall.

Entering here puts you inside a large vertical swim-through that slopes from 65’ to 110’ with a sandy bottom. Off to the right, the second chamber has light streaming through a hole in the top creating a beautiful cathedral efect. Exiting brings you out on the wall, and a short swim to the West brings you to a second open-topped swim-through back into the wall. Along the way, keep a keen eye deep into the blue as hammerheads have been spotted here many times. he second swim through is a personal favourite of mine and a great place to look for pipeish of diferent varieties. All of this and you’ve never lost sight of the boat, which you can see from almost every area of the dive site!

GREAT WALL WEST BLOODY BAY WALL

This is quintessential Little Cayman and cannot be passed up. he wall here is very shear

THE MEADOWS – JACKSON BIGHT About halfway up Bloody Bay, the structure of the wall changes into a large sandy patch at 45’, separating the main wall from a mini wall which rises to 15’ deep. his topography dominates Jackson Bight. he Meadows pin sits in a very shallow area of sand about 23’, surrounded by large coral heads which make an intricate pattern of swim-throughs and channels winding their way to the wall. Along the way look for sea hares and yellowface pikeblennys which will entertain you if you have a mirror! hrough any of the wall’s openings is a good time to look for the many Caribbean reef sharks in the area. Back into the sand, look out for spotted eagle rays digging out crustaceans.

In my opinion as a veteran diver guiding guests in Little Cayman, any day that included Great Wall West, Mixing Bowl and the Meadows would be near impossible to beat!

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Exploring

CAYMAN BRAC A NATURE LOVER’S PARADISE Cayman Brac is the most easterly of the Cayman Islands and quite different from its sisters with its distinct rugged terrain.

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DID YOU KNOW? Nature Cayman has free nature tours in Cayman Brac guided by local nature experts. They meet you at your accommodation and take you wherever you would like to explore.

Call 948-2222 ext 4420 to book your free tour.

T

BAT CAVES

LIGHTHOUSE

he island is about 12 miles long and 1.2 miles wide with the limestone bluff (or brac in Gaelic) rising through the middle and reaching 140’ in the east.

Small compared to some places, the Brac is fast becoming the newest destination for nature and outdoor enthusiasts with world-class diving, spelunking, rock climbing, spectacular lora and fauna, and all kinds of ishing. hroughout the island are lush and ancient forests that are home to over 200 species of birds, including peregrine falcons and the rare, endangered Brac parrot. he island is also home to the endangered sister isles’ rock iguanas, which can be seen meandering along the bluf and roadsides. he many caves within the bluf ofer plenty of exploring and hiking opportunities, with pirate’s gold still rumoured to be hidden in one of them.

Already known as a world-class diving destination with shallow, wreck and wall dives, the Brac diving community has partnered with DivePirates.org to bring the joy of diving to individuals with disabilities through Classified Scuba Diving. Every year since 2005 they’ve brought groups of up to eighty people, including 25 recipients, to spend a week diving and exploring the Brac and have helped create a community that allows anyone to enjoy underwater exploration no matter their physical abilities.

FUTURE SPORTS DESTINATION

BLACK NECK STILTS

In addition to its nature-related activities, the island is also home to a FIFA level 2 pitch and the soon-to-be-opened Olympic-sized swimming pool. he Brac is already hosting community league games alongside regional and international football tournaments and have plans to develop the sporting complex to host more tournaments for additional sports, including basketball and tennis.

If your trip is about relaxing, the island is fringed with small beaches and resting areas so grab a book and a towel and ind some inner peace while taking in the natural beauty of the Caribbean.

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COLUMBUS MONUMENT

BEST THINGS TO SEE THE LIGHTHOUSE he lighthouse sits

atop the bluff at the easternmost point of the island. Not twenty feet from the lighthouse are breathtaking views of the rocky edge of the clif and the sea 140 feet below. Walk along nature trails on either side to see the indigenous lora and wildlife.

HERITAGE HOUSE Located in North East Bay, it showcases the heritage and culture of Cayman Brac. he old style Caymanian Cottage has historical and cultural artefacts, a gift store with souvenirs and local artisan products, and is surrounded by native lora, the bluf, and the sea. An excellent way to beat the heat or the rain.

CAYMAN BRAC MUSEUM Built in 1933,

the Cayman Brac Museum in Stake Bay contains an array of artefacts such as turtle shells, a Bible from 1870, and an exhibit illed with stories, photos, and documents from the Great Storm of 1932. Originally the government administration building,

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the museum still has the post office, registry, and customs counters in place.

CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS GARDENS

Located atop the bluf, the Christopher Columbus Gardens opened in 2003 as a memorial to Columbus, who had discovered the Sister Islands 500 years prior, and to 500 notable residents of the islands who contributed signiicantly to the island’s development. here is beautiful native flora throughout the park, with small pamphlets guiding you through the several boardwalks.

BEST THINGS TO DO ON LAND SPELUNKING Scattered along both sides of the bluf are numerous caves that have acted as hurricane shelters for residents and hiding places for pirate’s treasure, or so the legend says. Most caves have easy-to-ind road signs, plaques detailing their history, and ladders and steps to make them accessible for every spelunker to explore.

HIKING OR CLIMBING THE BLUFF

Rock climbers from all over the world are discovering the bluf as their new climbing destination. here are now over 75 routes for the experienced climber, and the jagged cliffs along the eastern side of the bluff combine exhilarating climbs with incredible sea views. Just a beginner? here are many hiking trails in and around the bluf for all experience levels that allow you to see the island’s lora and fauna up-close.

PARROT RESERVE his 280-acre reserve on top of the bluf is an ancient dry forest illed with native trees and home to the Cayman Brac parrot as well as many other migratory species. A nature trail loops through the reserve and includes part of the historic trail early settlers used to cross the bluf. he best time to see or hear the Cayman Brac parrot is in the early morning and late afternoon.

BEST THINGS TO DO ON THE WATER WATER SPORTS AND KAYAKING Take a

break from the nature trails and caves, and enjoy the clear turquoise waters that surround the island. Most hotels and guest houses have snorkels, paddle boards and kayaks available so head out and take advantage of the bathtub-warm waters and see if you can spot any of the turtles for which the island is known.

DEEP SEA FISHING he waters around Cayman Brac are teeming with marine life such as Barracuda, Tuna, and Marlin. Experience one of the island’s oldest traditions and pastimes by spending the day shore- or deep-sea ishing. Book a private charter with a local isherman or head to the shore with a rod and reel, just make sure to check the marine laws as there are many protected areas and species.

BEACHES here are several beaches in the Brac-two of them can be found at Le Soleil D’Or Hotel and at Brac Caribbean Beach Village.

PUBLIC BEACH Located along the south coast the

simply named Public Beach is a tranquil sandy beach area with plenty of amenities so you can spend a lazy day relaxing. The area has bathroom and showering facilities as well as cabanas, parking, and most importantly, crystal clear waters for swimming, snorkelling, and cooling of.

Cayman Brac Calendar of Events: MARCH 25TH CAYMAN BRAC AGRICULTURAL SHOW Learn more about Cayman Brac’s farming history during their Agricultural Show. There is local produce and livestock on display as well as local crafts and products for purchase. You’ll also get to sample the produce and local cuisine in the food market.

MAY 12TH – 14TH BRAC JACKPOT FISHING TOURNAMENT The Brac Jackpot Fishing Tournament gives anglers the opportunity to reel in big game such as Mahi-Mahi, Blue Marlin, or Wahoo as well as Barracuda and Parrotfish. The tournament is open to everyone and prizes are awarded for the heaviest catches.

MAY 12TH – 15TH BRACCANAL CAYMAN BRAC CARNIVAL

Originally started as a Rotary Club fundraiser, Braccanal Carnival has become a 4-day cultural celebration with fetes, an all ages parade, and performances by local and international artists.

SEPTEMBER 29TH – OCTOBER 1ST BRAC BASH AND COOK-OFF To commemorate the 1996 sinking of the MV Keith Tibbetts as an artificial reef, Cayman Brac hosts a Cook-Off and Bash with a traditional craft market for local artisans, a scavenger hunt, snorkelling trips to the wreck, and more.

NOVEMBER 10TH – 12TH PIRATES WEEK CAYMAN BRAC The Brac celebrates its pirate history with a weekend of dances, Heritage Days, a parade, and fireworks. The celebration is a smaller version of the weeklong festival on Grand Cayman.

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MV TIBBETTS

DIVING CAYMAN BRAC From Russian Warships to Tarpon Reef.

By Roxane Boonstra

NORTH SIDE: EAST CHUTES Nestled on the northwest end with a mooring situated in only 45 feet, East Chutes is a popular shallow wall site. Friendly Nassau grouper escort visitors down the sandy “chutes”, occasionally getting under “in” as divers glide along the coral-studded wall. A sandy swimthrough leads you back to shallower water where juvenile barracuda sometimes gather. he contour of the reef takes you past a hard-to-find overgrown anchor and towards the Wreck of the Cayman Mariner, which was sunk in 1986. Often covered with juvenile ish in springtime, the wreck is excellent habitat for secretary blennies playing peek-a-boo and lazy pipeish.

NORTH SIDE: PREACHER’S BARGE he irst time I dove this site, I misheard the name as “Creature’s Barge”; and such a name wouldn’t be inaccurate! A menagerie of

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critters can be found here: from the classic sergeant majors protecting their eggs to harlequin pipeish, glass-eye snappers and ingerprint cyphomas. It is also home to a coral nursery, the purpose of which is to grow genetically diverse individuals of staghorn coral for future transplant to the greater reef area. Add in beautiful shallow coral heads and the World War II landing craft for which the site is named, and “Creature’s Barge” is a relaxing shallow dive.

NORTH SIDE: 356 his signature Cayman Brac dive is not to be missed! Originally a gift to Cuba from Russia, then purchased by the Cayman Islands and subsequently sunk in 1996, the 356 (also know as the Wreck of the Captain Keith Tibbetts) is the only diveable Russian warship in the western hemisphere. Broken in two by time, the bow lies on its side and points towards the deep blue of the wall

ILE F O PR while the stern stands upright on a sandy bottom surrounded by vibrant coral heads. Stingrays skim the sandy bottom while visiting horse-eye jacks school around the shallow radio tower.

SOUTH SIDE: PUBLIC BEACH his is the dive with something for everyone. With the wall a short swim away, the mooring is set in the heart of a meadow of coral heads covered with abundantly healthy coral of all shapes, colors and species. Rays cruise the sand and eels hide in the shadows of labyrinthine coral structure.

Closer to shore are shy goliath grouper, schools of tarpon and, in the summer months, thousands upon thousands of silversides that throng the shallower reef. Lazy Caribbean reef sharks often cruise by as a detour from the wall, adding a dose of adrenaline to an already excellent dive.

SOUTH SIDE: TARPON REEF here’s a common joke that once a dive site is named after an organism, it’s never seen there again. Fortunately, this isn’t true for Tarpon Reef. hese oversized, somewhat confused-looking silvery individuals are nearly always home; and who doesn’t like hanging out with such aloof ish? Once inished taking selies with them, head up to the mooring pin and hang with the schools of snappers and grunts milling around the thriving elkhorn coral.

Look closer in the coral depths for juvenile yellowtail damselish and nearby for the twitchy redlip blennies that also call the shallow reef home.

SOUTH SIDE: ANCHOR WALL Home to one of the most stunning swim-throughs on Cayman Brac, this site is named for the massive anchor that guards the entrance to a hidden chasm. Completely encrusted with coral and life, it makes for excellent photography opportunities. Once beyond the anchor and in the passageway, the exit is framed by black coral, a portrait showing open blue ocean that is occasionally traversed by a Caribbean reef shark. Below the boat, a pinnacle rises to 50 feet and is swathed in clouds of creole wrasse, Bermuda chub, chromis, scrawled ileish and other visiting ish dropping in to enjoy the view.

EAST END: BLUFF Cayman Brac is named for the 140-foot bluf that towers over the blue sea on the island’s east end. Centuries of tides and storms have shaped the bluf’s broad face, and it is a stunning sight when looking up from a boat; even more so when diving at the bluf base, looking up through ginclear water to the clif edge above. While eagle rays journey by, cherubish lit amongst the large boulders that litter the reef loor. Although cooperative weather is necessary for this long trek to the end of the island, the views from above and beneath the glassy calm surface are unforgettable.

SIMONE SCOTT Artistry in Cayman Brac Tucked away in a corner of Cayman Brac called Spot’s Bay is an old Caymanian home that houses the gallery of well-known local artist Simone Scott.

Although her art has been exhibited at other locations, including the National Gallery and the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, the gallery near to where she was born and raised lets you fully appreciate her artistic inspiration.

ARTISTIC BEGINNINGS Growing up in the tight-knit community of Cayman Brac, Simone was creative from a young age. Her father Tenson Scott is a well-known Caymanite artist and jeweller whose store shares the old Caymanian home with Simone’s gallery.

His jewellery has won national competitions and was selected to be the official gift to HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Andrew, The Duke of York, during their state visit in 1994.

To fur ther enhance her artistic skills and learn more about the arts, Simone moved to Florida to attend the Ringling School of Art and Design. After graduation, she came back to Cayman, bringing her new knowledge about the arts as well as a desire for sharing with and teaching others.

Her love and passion for teaching are well-known across the islands, and recently she received the Chairman’s Award for her outstanding and longterm support to the Cayman National Cultural Foundation.

DEVELOPING THE ARTS IN CAYMAN In addition to consistently creating ar t in a variety of mediums, she’s participated with a multitude of non-profit organisations including the National Trust (Cayman Brac district), Brac Autumn Festival, the National Gallery, Cayman National Cultural Foundation, Pirates Week Brac Committee, Cayman Brac Junior Culture Club, and Brac Cultural Camp. She’s also heavily involved with Cayman Traditional Arts, a program whose mission is to preserve Caymanian heritage and culture.

She loves to paint with traditional mediums such as acrylics and watercolours and new mediums such as iPad art. She draws inspiration from everything around her, from the Caribbean Sea to nature and everyday activities on the Brac. In addition to her pieces in the galleries, her work and love for Cayman can be seen in the illustrations of local children in the book ‘Let’s Explore the Cayman Islands’.

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Le Soleil d’Or Cayman Brac’s Golden Sun

C

ayman Brac is known for its diving, rugged terrain, and hospitality but not necessarily luxury resorts; that’s mostly left to the big island of Grand Cayman.

But that’s changing, at least in one resort.

Seven years in the making, Le Soleil d’Or (or he Golden Sun) is a luxury boutique resort that focuses on a true farm-to-table experience, wellness, and ultra-luxury.

Caribbean barefoot elegance mixed with luxury and Mediterranean comfort.

Chosen for its remoteness, natural beauty, and native hospitality, the resort harnesses the tranquillity and solitude of Cayman Brac. The resort comprises six properties on the south side of the island and includes the main boutique hotel with four private rooms, restaurants, a bar, ice cream shop, bakery, full gym, and pilates studio. As well as four private of-site accommodations, a beach club, and a 20-acre organic farm.

FARM SOLEIL he 20-acre organic farm is referred to as the heart and soul of the resort. It was the irst development by the owner and sits above the Boutique Hotel atop the bluf. he Cayman Islands aren’t known for their large-scale agricultural operations due to the poor quality of the soil, so it was necessary to import tonnes of nutrient rich soil to build the farm’s foundation. With 11 full-time local gardeners, the garden produces

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everything from watermelon to sorrel and olives and supplies all the ingredients for the resort. It even has a hen house for fresh eggs.

Exclusively available to resort guests, you can take a tour of the farm with one of their knowledgeable staf to see irst-hand the sustainable farming techniques used, sample the fresh produce, and even take part in a cooking class led by a member of their culinary team. Farm Soleil is accessible by two sets of stairs cut into the bluf (for the adventurous) or via the main bluf road.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL he hub of the resort, the Boutique Hotel, features amenities commonly found in other hotels such as a restaurant, bar, and a full-service gym, plus a few indulgent perks like an in-house bakery, ice cream shop, and show kitchen for gourmet cooking classes.

Within the Boutique Hotel are four private suites that include fantastic views of the sea and island, access to the Market Kitchen for complimentary drinks and snacks, access to Beach Soleil, their beach club and restaurant, and luxurious comfort. Every possible need is looked after by their super attentive staf.

Exactly the way a vacation should be!

PRIVATE RESIDENCES Looking for something bigger than a suite or more

privacy? The resort has three private residences available along the south coast and one atop the bluf at Farm Soleil. hree of the four have their own pool and private beach area.

Families can enjoy the space of the Beach House, a three-bedroom villa that can sleep up to 10, or the 1-bedroom Beach Cottage, which would comfortably sleep up to four people. Both properties feature beach access, private pools, and a full kitchen - making entertaining easy. he Farm Lodge is loved by kids as you get to stay in the heart of the farm. It features a private outdoor patio and great views of the island and sea.

Solo travellers or couples may prefer to stay in the Beach Studio, located at Beach Soleil overlooking the pool and beach area.

FOOD he core part of any wellness retreat has to be the food, and the resort embraces it with their farm-to-table experience featuring fresh organic food from their farm.

Everything served in their restaurants, bar, bakery, and ice cream shop is either grown locally or sourced from local producers to ensure freshness and quality. hey have also partnered with local ishermen to source fresh, sustainable seafood.

WELLNESS Wellness is a central principle of the hotel, and there are plenty of options for you to improve your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. The solitude, friendliness, and natural beauty of Cayman Brac does wonders for a person.

Taking a walk along the beach or a hike up the bluf in the clean air, while soaking up the warm Caribbean sun, helps to refresh and recharge your mind.

In addition to the healthy and natural food available, there is a pool, basketball court, tennis court, full-service gym, and pilates studio within the Boutique Hotel to help relieve stress and further improve your physical well-being. here are also beach bicycles available so you can explore the island on two wheels.

To work out any leftover stress or tightness, you can visit Spa Soleil for a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and scrubs all made with products from the farm.

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Exploring GRAND

CAYMAN SOMETHING FOR EVERY ONE

Although best known for its beautiful white sand beaches and diving, there’s plenty to do and discover away from the water. From sports to nature to history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Grand Cayman. Don’t forget to go off the beaten path and explore each of the five unique districts on the island, each with its own story and type of Caymankind. From the Turtle Farm in West Bay to the beaches of East End and the Mastic Trail in North Side.

PEDRO ST. JAMES

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BEACHES A GUIDE TO THE BEST BEACHES

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BEST BEACHES For...

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SMITH BARCADERE, KNOWN LOCALLY AS SMITH COVE V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S

SEVEN MILE BEACH

G

rand Cayman is a true slice of Caribbean paradise, complete with award-winning beaches, white softas-sugar sand, and calm, clear waters that are as warm as your bathtub. No matter what you’re looking for – a place to work on your tan, be romantic, or meet others Cayman has something for you.

Beach lies Public Beach, a vast expanse of white sand, calm waters, cabanas, BBQs, a children’s play area, changing rooms, and Calico Jacks, a beach bar known for its beach parties. Cabanas are irst come irst serve so get there early to claim yours.

BEST BEACH FOR PEOPLE WATCHING BEST BEACH FOR SOLITUDE

ROYAL PALMS BEACH On the southern part of Seven Mile

BARKERS BEACH Located in Barker’s National Park on the

Beach, the beach in front of the Royal Palms Beach Club is a mecca for people. A favourite beach and water destination for both visitors and many locals. here’s easy access to showers, watersports, drinks, and food, making it easy to spend an entire day here.

easternmost tip of West Bay, Barker’s Beach is a long stretch of undeveloped land ofering privacy and solitude. he cooling trade winds make it popular with kite surfers. However, you’ll be hard pressed to ind many others on the beach. he beach is only accessible by vehicles and pedestrians between sunrise and sunset.

BEST BEACH FOR SNORKELING SMITH COVE Located just south of George Town, Smith

BEST BEACH FOR PARTIES PUBLIC BEACH Towards the northern part of Seven Mile

Cove has a smaller beach ringed by coral and limestone, and the seabed drops away so you can snorkel close to shore.

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here is a variety of sea life to be found below the water, including parrot fish, sergeant majors, and beautiful corals. Perfect for irst-time snorkelers.

BEST BEACH FOR ROMANCE COLLIERS Located in East End right before the Morritts Resort, Colliers Beach is perfect for your romantic getaway. Most days the only visitors to the beach are the chickens. Grab a takeout from one of the nearby restaurants, set up a romantic picnic in one of the free cabanas and take in the magniicent views.Â

BEST BEACH FOR FAMILIES RUM POINT At the tip of North Side lies Rum Point, a picturesque beach that has something for everyone and full amenities. Chill out in a hammock, play volleyball, go for a swim in the shallow waters, rent a wave runner from Red Sail, or grab a bite to eat at the beach bar and grill. A local favourite at weekends. he perfect beach for families to spend the whole day together.

BEST BEACH FOR BARBEQUES WATER CAY Located at the end of Cayman Kai, Water Cay Public Beach has all the amenities you need for a great

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beach barbeque. Facing the calm North Sound waters, the area has cabanas, barbeque grills, shower and bathroom facilities, and shallow waters for everyone to play in and cool of. It’s also within walking distance to Rum Point and Kaibo Yacht Club in case you forgot the charcoal.

BEST BEACH FOR SEA CREATURES STARFISH POINT Although you will see tropical ish in the water at all the beaches in Grand Cayman, the shallow water at Starish Point is home to dozens of starish.

Located on the tip of North Side, the beach itself is mostly undeveloped and remote, with calm, shallow waters for swimming, cooling of, or checking out the starish. Please remember to leave the starish in the water, the air can damage them.

BEST BEACH FOR EVERYTHING SEVEN MILE BEACH Rated the No.1 beach in the world,

Seven Mile Beach has it all, from secluded spots to public beaches with water sports and facilities. he crystal clear water will entice you, and the powdery white sand will stay with you. There are many beaches within SMB, including Cemetery Beach, Governors Beach, and Public Beach with fantastic snorkelling reefs just of shore.

COLLIERS BEACH

SEVEN MILE BEACH

BAREFOOT BEACH

STARFISH POINT

RUM POINT

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Connect With

NATURE FLORA, FAUNA AND UNFORGETTABLE BEAUTY

BABY BLUE IGUANA

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RITZ AMBASSADORS OF THE ENVIRONMENT Started by Jean-Michel Cousteau, the Ambassadors of the Environment program gives people of all ages the chance to learn more about the diverse ecosystem around the Ritz with exciting eco-adventures such as Crazy Critters, Stingray Detective, Reef Discovery Snorkel, Glow in The Dark, and more. Through exploration and study, you can learn more about the natural wonders and cultural traditions of Cayman. he program is open to people of all ages, and you don’t need to be staying at the Ritz to join.

GOVERNOR MICHAEL GORE BIRD SANCTUARY Known locally as the Governor’s Pond, the Governor Michael Gore Bird Sanctuary is a favourite spot for the island’s bird lovers.

Small at only 2.25 acres, it’s the seasonal home to more than 60 species of water and land birds, including kingishers, egrets, herons, and a few rare species like the purple gallinule. Birds aren’t the only animals to call the sanctuary home as clouds of colourful butterlies congregate in the area, and freshwater turtles are often spotted amongst the pond reeds. Located in Spotts Newlands, just past Spotts Landing turn left onto Spotts Newlands Road, then your irst right onto Pennsylvania Avenue.

QUEEN ELIZABETH II BOTANIC PARK Located in the heart of Grand Cayman, the 65-acre Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is often called the hidden gem of the island. Spend the day learning about Caymanian indigenous plants, wildlife and

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BIOLUMINESCENCE FOUNTAIN

life of early settlers. here are four different areas of the BANANAQUIT park: he Heritage Garden, the Floral Colour Garden, the Lake, and the Woodland Trail. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Blue Iguanas, the park is the only place in the world where you can ind these amazing creatures, who are usually roaming around the park.

THE BLUE IGUANA SAFARI he Blue Iguana is one of the most endangered reptiles in the world. Found only in the interior of Grand Cayman, they can grow to over 5 feet in length and live as long as humans. he Blue Iguana Safari takes you behind the scenes at the captive breeding facility in the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, where you can see the recovery and conservation eforts in practice. Afterwards, you’ll take a guided tour of the woodland trails, meeting some of the Blue Iguanas that the programme releases in the park. Tours start at 11 am Monday - Saturday.

MASTIC TRAIL Travel through the island’s North Side the way Caymanians did 200 years ago on the Mastic Trail. he well-worn path through a 2 million-year-old woodland area has much of Grand Cayman’s rare plant life and a variety of wildlife, allowing you to learn more about the diverse ecosystem on the island. he trail is relatively easy and will take about 2-3 hours depending on your pace. You can go it alone or take a tour with one

of the knowledgeable tour guides from the National Trust.

Call 749-1121 for more information on the guided tours.

CRYSTAL CAVES Step into an underground world illed with amazing works of natural art millions of years old. he Crystal Caves are in the lush forest of North Side, and during your 90-minute tour, you will see hundreds of stalactites and stalagmites, an indoor lake, plants, trees, and even birds. All tour guides grew up in the area, so they will be able to answer any questions you may have about the area or Cayman. he caves are open Tuesday to Sunday and require pre-booking. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and warm weather clothing - it’s pretty warm in the caves.

BIOLUMINESCENCE TOUR Journey through Cayman’s ancient mangroves and bio bay to experience one of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world.

George’s Watersports [923-7078] will take you in your choice of a kayak or a boat to see the mangroves light up in the brilliant blue glow! hese fascinating 90-minute tours only happen on the darkest nights of the month so book early! Georges Watersports is in the Cayman Islands Yacht Club, and they ofer free pick up from the hotels and condos on Seven Mile Beach. If you are looking for a longer tour, Six Senses’ [938-3303] award-winning tour takes you through the mangroves at Booby Cay, Starish Point, Rum Point, Stingray City, snorkelling at Coral Garden Reefs, then back through a private canal to watch the iguanas bed down in the mangroves. Short on time? hey also have a compact 3-hour early tour.

STARFISH POINT Tucked away in Cayman Kai is a deserted inger of land, whose shallow waters are the natural home to dozens of starish. Largely undeveloped and remote, Starish Point is a small beach on the North Sound with crystal clear water where you can see these beautiful creatures up close. he beach is located in North Side at the end of Water Cay Road just past Kaibo Yacht Club. Please remember to leave the starish in the water as the air can damage them.

CRYSTAL CAVES

LIONFISH Eat them to beat them

By Joe Avary The Lionfish (scientifically known as the Pterois Volitans) is an invasive species in the Cayman Islands and throughout the Caribbean. With no natural predators to reign them in, the Lionfish population can explode almost exponentially.

Imagine being able to release between 10,000 and 30,000 eggs every four days. That kind of fecundity requires a lot of fuel, and Lionfish are always on the lookout for their next meal.

Indiscriminate predators, the Lionfish feed on just about anything they can get their mouths around, including baby lobsters, baby groupers, and baby stingrays. They’re not picky at all, they’ll even chow down on mollusks and invertebrates. Their stomachs can stretch to accommodate prey half its size. Scientists have even undertaken the slightly icky task of foraging through the stretched-out stomachs of dead Lionfish to catalogue the contents, finding a whopping 70 distinct species.

With the aforementioned skill set, the Lionfish are truly c a pa ble of d oing major damag e to the d elic ate ecosystems that surround the Cayman Islands, but diver s, snorkeler s, and environmentalists are fighting back tooth and nail against the invasion.

Cayman United Lionfish League, also known as CULL, was formed in March 2013 with

the aim of reducing the Lionfish population. CULL’s regular tournaments (and the $20,000 in prize money put up by CULL partner Foster’s Food Fair) incentivize cullers to venture into off-the-beaten path dive sites and snorkel spots in search of these long-spined pests.

Due to the Lionfish’s penchant for inhabiting confined spaces and hiding under ledges, traditional fishing methods aren’t effective for Lionfish.

Cullers rely on a keen eye and Department of Environment issued spears to make the kill.

Lionfish, while still an unwelcome sight on Cayman’s reefs, has gained popularity among chefs in restaurants all over the islands. The white meat is flaky and delicious, with a clean and light buttery flavor. Once the 18 venomous spines are removed, the fish are quite easy to fillet for even the most basic of home cooks. Some of the island’s dive professionals have been known to trade Lionfish for bar tabs at certain purveyors of fine food and drink, or supplement their income helping to supply the growing demand from restaurants.

It’s unlikely the Lionfish will be eradicated in Cayman’s waters. But through CULL’s continued ef for ts to take Lionfish from reef pest to chef’s special, the invasion is being kept in check. It’s on all of us to ‘eat them to beat them.’

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ON LAND SIGHTSEEING AND THE BEST THINGS TO DO ASHORE

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SIGHTSEEING Grand Cayman is known for its amazing beaches, fabulous food, and world class diving, but there’s lots to see that may be hidden behind the spotlight. If you have time, rent a car and spend a day exploring everything the island has to ofer, from historical monuments to architecture and natural attractions. Or better yet, sign up for a tour with a local guide who can share in-depth knowledge about the sights and the island. Your guided tour here starts in West Bay and takes you all the way round to Rum Point.

WEST BAY he district of West Bay starts at the northern beaches and extends down to Governors House on West Bay Road. It’s one of the most populated areas on the island and includes the northern portion of Seven Mile Beach.

Near the north-west point, the Turtle Farm is home to many marine animals, including the green sea turtles that are the star attraction in their conservation facility. In the heart of West Bay is a little community called Hell. So named for its similarity in looks, the main attractions are a group of black, jagged limestone formations for photo opportunities and a post oice so you can send postcards from Hell.

GEORGE TOWN Take a few minutes on your way into George Town to stop at one of the many public beaches that make up world-famous Seven Mile Beach and take in the vast length of the beach, the crystal clear waters, and feel the powdery soft white sand between your toes.

From there, stop at the new urban centre of Camana Bay. It is a great place to explore, especially the 75-foot Observation Tower with a 360-degree panoramic view of the island, ive courtyards featuring local lora and water fountains, and a harbour replete with a small island with swaying palm trees.

From Camana Bay it is not far to the new National Gallery. Inside you’ll ind their current exhibitions as well as the National Collection featuring works by local artists that capture all aspects of Caymanian life over the past 40 years. he grounds of the gallery also have a picnic area inside a sculpture garden and a series of gardens created by renowned local designers that feature mainly native plants.

From the National Gallery, head into downtown George Town along West Bay Road. he road is lined with luxury hotels and condos along with shops, restaurants and malls, and glimpses

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of the sea in between. As you get closer to downtown, you’ll start to see modern buildings interspersed with historic homes and buildings, such as Mr. Arthur’s Store, and the popular local isherman’s market in which is no more than a table and umbrella between the bay and North Church Street.

George Town is home to the country’s government buildings and also has several historic sites and monuments, including Heroes Square at the corner of Fort Street and Albert Panton Street, the original library building, the Elmslie Memorial United Church (built in 1845), the National Museum on Harbour Drive, and Fort George. he fort is located on the corner of Fort Street and Harbour Drive and was built in 1790 to defend the island from attacks. It was recently renovated to include a rebuilt look-out house and a mural depicting scenes from the fort’s past.

Just south of downtown the pace is decidedly more relaxed. Mostly residential, South Church Street is lined with historic buildings like the Grand Old House restaurant and modern upscale homes and parks such as Dart Family Park which is home to the National Trust.

To head to the Eastern districts keep driving down South Sound Road and you’ll be treated to spectacular homes and water views on your right as well as our very own Flip Flop Tree, started as a way to remind residents and visitors to help keep our beaches clean.

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BODDEN TOWN Cayman’s original capital, Bodden Town, is less crowded and has a slower pace than George Town and West Bay, but with just as many natural and historical attractions.

The Governor’s Pond is located as you cross into the district and is a favourite spot for bird lovers as it’s the seasonal home to more than 60 species of water and land birds.

If you’re a history buf, you’ll love the guided tour of the Mission House. Located on Gun Square, this historic building has been home to three families of early settlers as well as the Presbyterian missionaries who arrived in the 1800s’ to establish the ministry and school. Tours are available through the National Trust by appointment only for groups of six or more.

At the entrance to Bodden Town is Guard House Park. Recently refurbished, it’s the location of the 19th-century security post for the south side of the island and includes cannons, native gardens, and a small thatch and stone building.

Overlooking Pedro’s Bluf sits the oldest existing stone structure in the country, Pedro St. James. he birthplace of democracy in Cayman, in the past the building was also a jail, a courthouse, and a family home.

As you drive from Bodden Town and cross into East End, you will be treated to breath-taking views of the sea, sometimes from limestone clifs while other times it will be along small sandy beaches.

EAST END Just past Ironshore Point are the famous Blow Holes, so named for the sprays of sea water that come through the iron shore. hey’re strongest during periods of brisk easterly winds and can reach over ifteen feet. here’s also a quiet, shaded area where you can stop to take in the scenery.

Cutting through the middle of the island is Frank Sound Road, allowing you quick access to the North Side district as well as the northern shore. About a third of the way up the Road lies the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, which has three gardens featuring native plants and trees, and is home to the endangered Cayman

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Blue Iguanas.

BLOWHOLES East of Half Moon Bay along Sea View Road is a memorial to the Wreck of the 10 Sails, the event that popular legend says led to the Cayman Islands being free from taxation. While that part of the legend isn’t true, the memorial calls attention to the Caymanians who helped rescue crew members from the ten ships that ran aground on the visible reef just of shore.

As you make your way along the east end of the island, buildings become more scarce and the nature more prominent. here are many small water is shallow, allowing you to explore the beaches and rest areas along the road shore in relatively still waters.

Rum Point sits at the tip of North side where you can stop for a picnic or to explore, including Barefoot Beach just Side. his beach area is much quieter than on the west side and has every amenity you past Morritts Resort. could want – from a restaurant and beach NORTH SIDE bar to quiet hammocks near the water and Along the shores of North Side, there watersports to explore the North Sound. are plenty of nature haunts, including Turning round and then south down the Mastic Trail, Crystal Caves, and Frank Sound Road, the inal sight – one not Old Man Bay. to be missed - is the Queen Elizabeth 11 In the far reaches of the idyllic seaside Botanical Park, which has three gardens community of Cayman Kai is Water Cay featuring native plants and trees and is home Beach. Facing the calm North Sound, the to the endangered Cayman Blue Iguanas.

RUM POINT

QEII BOTANIC PARK

PEDRO ST. JAMES

QEII BOTANIC PARK

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Best Things To Do

ON LAND

A VISIT TO THE TURTLE FARM The Cayman Turtle Farm [9 4 9 -3 8 9 4] i s b o t h a conser vat ion faci lit y for green sea turtles and a marine adventure park. Learn about these fascinating creatures a lon g w it h loc a l bi rd s , caiman, and other marine creatures. You can even hold yearling turtles in the touch tanks. Afterwards, enjoy a refreshing dip in the tidal lagoon or swim with marine life in the salt-water lagoon.

GOLFING Work on your tan while teeing up on one of Cayman’s two world-class golf courses.

T he R it z - C a rlton G ol f Club [815-6500] features a 9-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman with f ive long par fours that will challenge even the most experienced golfer. he island’s only 18-hole course, North Sound Golf Club [947-4653], is a par 71 18hole course with spectacular views of the North Sound.

A SEGWAY TOUR Tired legs? Take a breather a nd explore Se ven Mi le Beach and Camana Bay on a Seg way. The 90-minute

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tou r t a ke s you t h rou g h Camana Bay with a stop at the Observation Tower, then onto the beach as you roll down the sands of the world famous Seven Mile Beach.

If you need to beat the heat, they also ofer sunset tours.

NATIONAL MUSEUM Learn more about the history of the Cayman Islands at the Nationa l Museum in George Town. Housed in the oldest public building in t he countr y, you ca n explore the natural, cultural, and culinary history of the Cayma n Isla nds through an audiovisual theatre and f ive ex hibition ga lleries, including one just for kids.

Tour guides are available, or you can explore on your own.

CAYMAN MOTOR MUSEUM A mu seu m ded ic ated to ra re, exot ic, a nd cla ssic motorcars and motorbikes, the Cayman Motor Museum in West Bay is the public showroom for businessman A ndreas Ugland ’s private collection. Initially boasting 55 pieces, including t he original Batmobile and a 1939 Mercedes 230s, the

PAMPERED PONIES

TURTLE FARM

NORTH SOUND GOLF CLUB

NATIONAL MUSEUM

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mu seu m rec ent ly closed while the owner revamped his collection and is expected to reopen in November 2016.

AN ISLAND TOUR Your trip to the Cayman Isla nds wou ld not be complete without touring the island. Majestic Tours [9 49 -7 7 73] c a n d e s i g n speciic tours for your group or you can choose from their

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most popula r la nd-ba sed tours which include a West Island Tour (3-4 hours), an East Island Tour (3-4 hours) or a Full Island Tour with lunch (5-6 hours).

HORSEBACK RIDING Ta ke a qu iet hor sebac k r ide dow n t he de sol ate northern beaches of Grand Cayma n wit h Pa mpered

Ponies [916-2540]. Ride at your own pace on these welltrained and gentle horses while taking in the breathtaking scenery of Barker’s National Pa rk. The a rea is a lso a favourite of kite-boarders so you may have company as you swim bareback on the horse through the waters.

Open weekdays.

CAYMAN ISLANDS BREWERY TOURS See what happens behind the curtain and take a tour of the Cayman Islands Brewery [ 9 4 7- 6 6 9 9 ] . A v a i l a b l e on weekd ay s, lea rn how they make their signature Ironshore Bock, White Tip Lager, Caybrew and Caybrew Light beers. From the first step to the sampling stage, it’s a great tour for anyone interested in brewing.

BLOWHOLES

2017

UR YO P !

K U COP Y C I P EE FR

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DART PARK

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BLACK PEARL SKATE CLUB

Best Things To Do

FOR KIDS

CAMANA BAY Camana Bay has something for everyone, especially kids. The town centre has water fountains to splash around in, ive unique courtyards each with their own themed garden and water features, he Observation Tower with panoramic views of Grand Cayman, and a palm tree-lined island in the harbour with hammocks.

They also hold family-friendly events throughout the year, including moonlit movies, Easter Egg hunts, the lighting of the Christmas Tree and more. Visit camanabay.com for more information.

STARFISH VILLAGE Tucked away on the Crescent at Camana Bay, Starish Village [640-7827] is an innovative play and learning centre that helps spark the imagination and creativity in children. Need some adult space? Give the kids their own time and drop them of to spend the afternoon making crafts, exploring the Indoor Village Square, and playing games with other children their age. hey also have sing-alongs, art classes, and more!

BLACK PEARL Located in the Shoppes at Grand Harbour,

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Black Pearl is a community centre where kids of all ages can shoot some hoops or ride in one of the world’s largest skate parks. he park is open for skateboards as well as BMX bikes, scooters, and inline skating, and has 62,000 square feet of big bowls, 14 feet high walls, ramps, and rails. Open daily

DART FAMILY PARK Dart Family Park can be found on South Church Street - one of the island’s largest public parks. his is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle with a mini beach area, numerous shaded areas for picnics, children’s playground, lifesized Caymanian play cottage, and an open-air amphitheatre for all the budding entertainers. There are even secret pathways through the trees for the little ones to explore. he park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Best Things To Do

INDOORS

LOCKED INN Get out of the rain and put your problem-solving skills to the test. With 45 minutes to ind clues, solve puzzles, and escape one of six themed escape rooms, Locked Inn is one of the newest and more popular activities on the island. he Inn is open Monday to Saturday and you can bring the kids if you have the whole group of six booked.

NATIONAL GALLERY he National Gallery of Cayman [945-8111] has a variety of free and paid art classes, workshops, lectures, and tours for every member of the family. Get out of the rain or take a break from the beach while learning more about the National Collection or a variety of exhibitions. hey even have scavenger hunts for the kids.

REGAL CINEMAS Sit back and enjoy the newest movie releases in a six-screen state of the art movie theatre. Located in Camana Bay, Regal Cinemas is always busy rain or shine with locals and visitors watching the latest movies or enjoying something from their snack bar.

SPA TIME Relax and pamper yourself with a massage, facial, mani/pedi, or even a new hairstyle. After spending long days in the hot sun and salty water, treat yourself during a day of liquid sunshine by visiting one of the many spas on an island who specialise in helping to revitalise and rejuvenate. It will get you ready to enjoy the rest of your vacation.

KING’S SPORTS CENTRE Keep in shape while on vacation or escape the liquid sunshine at Kings Sports Centre in George Town. In addition to their wellequipped gym, squash courts, and roller rink, you can climb the rock wall, join a itness class, take a steam, or hit the lanes with King Pin Bowling. You’ll ind plenty to do indoors to keep everyone in your group happy and busy. Open daily

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On The

WATER THE BEST THINGS TO DO

Known around the world as a mecca for divers and water sports enthusiasts, the waters around Grand Cayman are crystal clear, calm, and teeming with marine life. Whether you’re looking for adventure, sea creatures, exercise, or relaxation, Grand Cayman has something for everyone.

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Best Things To Do

ON THE WATER SWIM WITH DOLPHINS Have the experience of a lifetime with a one-onone encounter with a dolphin. Learn more about these tender mammals at Dolphin Discovery [7697946] (including how they talk to each other) before taking to the water for an interactive program where you can swim, share a kiss, and listen to them sing. he best part is you don’t need any prior swimming or diving experience.

A SUBMARINE TOUR Atlantis Submarines [949-7700] allows everyone to dive into the Caribbean Sea to see the marine life for which Cayman is known. Diving to depths of 100 feet, you will cruise along the reef illed with sponges, corals, and tropical ish. You may even see the occasional turtle or stingray. he night dive allows you to see the reef in full colour while nocturnal ish make an appearance.

GO DIVING Since 1996 Divers Down [945-1611] has ofered personalized daily boat dives to the amazing walls, reefs and wrecks (including the Kittiwake) of Cayman as well as Stingray City adventures and night dives. heir full service PADI training department can teach Discover Scuba all the way up to Divemaster in a friendly, professional environment.

Customized private charters available at competitive rates.

For a more intimate experience, Cayman Diving [916-8487] aim to give you the best diving experience, best training, and best personalized service possible. Dive groups are limited - average is 3-4 on most dives which means no crowded boats or dive sites, perfect for small groups who want their own boat and instructors. Established in 1982 and with a leet of 6 boats, Don Fosters Dive [945-5132] ofer day and night dives including wreck, wall and Stingray City dives. hey also ofer a fully stocked dive shop as well as a range of instruction courses. he Lobster Pot Dive Center [946-8685] is a 5 Star PADI dive resort. Along with its partner companies, Wall to Wall Diving and Deep Blue Divers, it can provide all levels of dive instruction and numerous boat diving options for certiied divers, from the wreck of the Kittiwake to Cayman’s famous walls and reefs.

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A STINGRAY CITY TOUR Where else can you play with gentle Southern stingrays while standing in knee-deep water?

Captain Marvin’s [945-6975] will take you to Stingray City where you can interact and feed the friendly stingrays. Afterwards, you’ll go snorkelling at the nearby coral reefs to see more of Cayman’s amazing marine life such as eels, tropical ish, and maybe even a harmless nurse shark. Stingray City Tours are also available through Six Senses and George’s Watersports.

WATERSPORTS Enjoy the crystal turquoise waters of the Caribbean while snorkelling, kayaking, jet skiing, or paddle boarding.

Red Sail Sports [623-5965] has 5 locations across Grand Cayman to help you enjoy the warm waters and beach wherever you’re staying.

Visit www.cita.ky/shareourseas to see how we can all safely “Share our Seas” and enjoy Cayman’s beautiful waters.

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DEEP SEA FISHING he waters around Cayman are wellknown to anglers around the world.

Blue Water Excursions [925-8738] ofers half and full day ishing charters to help you reel in the big catch. With deep water not too far from shore and the outer banks only 10 miles away, you can head out and start ishing in no time for big game ish such as Mahi Mahi, Yellowin Tuna, and Blue Marlin.

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AN ECO TOUR Get ready for a jam-packed day with a 6-hour 6-stop eco-adventure island tour.

Six Senses’ [938-3303] award-winning tour takes you through the mangroves at Booby Cay, Starish Point, Rum Point, Stingray Cit y, snorkelling at Cora l Garden Reefs, then back through a private canal to watch the iguanas bed down in the mangroves. Short on time? hey also have a compact 3-hour early tour.

If you are looking for a shorter tour of 90 minutes, George’s Watersports [9237078] will take you in your choice of a kayak or a boat to see the mangroves light up in the brilliant blue bioluminescence glow! Georges Watersports ofer free pick up from the hotels and condos on Seven Mile Beach.

JETOVATOR he best new thing to hit the water since the jet ski, the Jetovator is a personal

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water craft that lets you soar 25 feet above the water at speeds up to 25mph.

No previous experience necessary as it’s incredibly easy to learn and you’ll be out on the water in no time. Contact White Sands Watersports [916-7263] who are the exclusive operator of Jetovator in Cayman. hey ofer a courtesy pick-up and drop-of service from your hotel.

KITEBOARDING K it e b o a rd i n g , w h ic h i s b a sic a l ly windsuring at the end of a kite, is one of the latest water sports crazes. Barkers Beach (10-15 minutes from Seven Mile Beach on the nirth shore) is perfect for kiteboarding as it gets terrific winds a nd K ite su r f Cay ma n [916 -5483] are the experts. hey will pick you up and drop you of at your hotel or cond.

They provide lessons and equipment for all standards and have a 5 Star TripAdvisor rating.

PROFILE

SYBIL McLAUGHLIN Island Girl and National Hero

S

ybil McLaughlin is celebrated throughout the Cayman Islands for her remarkable career and her dedication to the Cayman Islands Government. As the first woman to achieve the designation of National Hero of the Cayman Islands, Mrs. McLaughlin is often regarded as an inspiration to women – both young and old – across the Cayman Islands and Caribbean.

LOCAL BEGINNINGS She will tell you, however, that her journey began in more humble circumstances. Born in Mobile, Alabama, Mrs. McLaughlin is the daughter of Captain Charles Bush, also from Mobile, and Lottie Bush of Cayman Brac. Two years after she was born, her father passed away and Lottie moved back to the Cayman Islands with her children in tow.

As a young girl, Mrs. McLaughlin was sent to live with her aunt in Nicaragua where she attended grade school before returning to Grand Cayman to complete her high school education at the only secondary school in the Cayman Islands.

She grew up in an era when men were often away

at sea and women were compelled to become strong, independent women for their families and few had careers of any sort. A trail blazer and pioneer, Mrs. McLaughlin felt she was destined for more and often dreamed of sitting behind a big desk in an office.

She at tended the Baptist College in Managua, Nicaragua where she graduated with a commercial course, typing qualifications and a fluency in Spanish. Shortly after her return, she was offered a modest position within the Government as a clerk typist, preparing bills for the Legislative Assembly, and on her first day of work she rode her bicycle into George Town, which stands today as Grand Cayman’s capital and a bustling financial district.

IN SERVICE TO CAYMAN Over a 20 year span, her career blossomed and included roles like Clerk of what is now referred to as the Cabinet, Secretary of the Cayman Islands Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentar y Association and she was Cayman’s first Speaker of the House. She was the first woman among the Commonwealth countries to hold the title of Clerk of the Legislative Assembly. She also oversaw the body that administered Cayman’s foremost written constitution and had stints at the House of Commons in London, the Northern Ireland Parliament in Stormont and Parliaments in both Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago. She officially retired from the Government in 1996 and it was at this time she was designated Cayman’s highest honour as a National Hero.

Setting the pace for the advancement of women in her shadow, Mrs. McLaughlin was also a founding member of the Business Professional Women’s Club and was actively involved in Rotary Sunrise. Her dedication to her family, community and charities throughout the Cayman Islands is incredible and she has made an indelible mark on Cayman’s society as a result.

Today, at 88 years old, Mrs. McLaughlin enjoys spending time with her sons, watching tennis on her television and playing the organ for her church. A memoir of her life story, From Island Girl to National Hero, by Heather R. McLaughlin, can be found at bookstores across Grand Cayman.

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WRECK OF THE KITTIWAKE

DIVING REEFS AND WALL DIVES

Proudly recognised as the birthplace of recreational diving in the Caribbean, Grand Cayman has almost 200 dive sites surrounding the island. The spectacular dives include shallow shore dives at Devil’s Grotto, the sheer walls located within yards of the beach, and wreck diving at the Kittiwake.

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GRAND DIVING in Cayman From shallow to over-the-wall dives

By Keith Sahm

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he 365 dive sites in the Cayman Islands are sure to leave even the most seasoned divers awestruck, yet are so easy to enjoy for new divers. he islands have deep dramatic walls adorned with sponges and corals, shallow reefs of ish and small invertebrates, and an assortment of famous wrecks, all in perfect 80 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 26 degrees Celsius) water.

Visibility often exceeds 100 feet revealing some of the world’s most diverse aquatic life. Grand Cayman is home to the worlds’ best 12-foot dive, the legendary Stingray City and the ex-USS Kittiwake. With an abundance of experienced, highly professional instructors from all over the world, numerous snorkel and scuba diving sites accessible by boat or straight from shore, the Cayman Islands is the ideal setting to explore or learn to explore the underwater realm.

Why is scuba diving so amazing in the Cayman Islands?

Rising from the ocean bed in the clear waters of the northern

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Caribbean Sea lays a massive underwater mountain range known as the Cayman Ridge. hree of its spectacular peaks break the surface of the water to form the islands of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. To the north lies the island of Cuba and to the east Jamaica. The water is deliciously warm, and the diving is easy. With no rivers or run of depositing sediment into the crystal clear water, the islands are said to be amongst the least polluted in the world. Fringing reefs surround the islands with Staghorn coral, canyons, pinnacles, archways and, of course, the magniicent walls that provide the necessary protection for all varieties of marine life while still enabling the larger pelagic species to come within reach of the diver. Because diving is such a major part of the tourism industry, diving in the Cayman Islands has become highly organised and very professionally run. The diving industry, together with the government, formed the Cayman Islands Watersports Operators Association (presently called the Watersports Sector of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association

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CITA), which sets the highest standards in diving safety, boat operation, and diving guides. he creation of permanent mooring sites and continuing environmental education all help to preserve the health and delicate ecology of the reefs and their associated marine life.

Safe diving standards of the CITA he CITA Watersports members subscribe to and comply with safety rules and regulations designed to keep the diving s a f e a nd t o pr ot e c t t he m a r i ne environment. he organisation has also inluenced local government to enforce m a r i ne c on ser vat ion l aw s, i n st a l l moorings buoys, and initiate other

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policies for sustainable tourism. CITA members comply with a recommended 100 feet (30 meters) for recreational scuba customers. he required maximum depth with recreational scuba customers is 130feet/39meters and 100feet/30meters for repetitive same-day dives.

During the pre-dive and snorkelling brieings, everyone is advised to observe the CITA’s rules of safe diving, including their “hands and ins” of policy for all marine life! he rules also apply to the use of gloves while diving. If you’re in need of gloves to go up and down the anchor line, once at the bottom, you’ll be asked to remove your gloves to help protect coral growth and ish health.

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ARTS CULTURE & Events A GUIDE TO CAYMANIAN CULTURE AND EVENTS

A R T, C U LT U R E & E V E N T S

CAYMAN ISLANDS Agricultural Show 50 years of celebrating agriculture on Grand Cayman

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t is the 50th anniversary of the Cayman Islands Agricultural Show in 2017, and it’s going to be a huge celebration.

Agriculture in the Cayman Islands has a long history, going back to the irst settlers on the sister islands. Early settlers supplemented their ishing with subsistence farming of cassava, sweet potatoes, and yams, growing what they could in their yards to help feed their families and selling the rest to passing boats. With the recent advances in farming technology, agriculture has experienced a revival. For 50 years the Cayman Islands Agricultural Society, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, have celebrated the island’s farmers and ranchers with the Agricultural Show.

CREATION OF THE CAYMAN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY he Cayman Islands Agricultural Society was started by Ulric McNamee and ten local agricultural enthusiasts after attending

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the Agricultural Show in Denbigh, Jamaica. Believing that the Cayman Islands needed a place to showcase the country’s agricultural heritage and industry they set about planning and creating the Cayman Islands Agricultural Show, which was irst held on Ash Wednesday in 1967 on the school grounds behind the George Town Library.

Since 1967 the show has grown in leaps and bounds and due to its popularity, they’ve had to move its location from its original spot in George Town to the grounds of John Gray High School and inally to the Agricultural Pavilion in Lower Valley.

Now entering its 50th year, the Agricultural Show is one of the most anticipated events on the calendar, drawing thousands of locals, visitors, and even cruise-ship passengers to the fairgrounds in Lower Valley. Young or old, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

All three islands have unique environments, and you can learn more about the science and technology behind local

farming, with companies showing the latest equipment and methods to farming and ranching in Cayman.

Under the big top, vendors display their locally made crafts, including jewellery, silver thatch, clothing and art.

There are also demonstrations in the traditional Caymanian arts.

Each of Grand Cayman’s f ive districts (West Bay, George Town, Bodden Town, North Side, and East End) have displays showing their unique heritage and agriculture.

Many backyard and commercial farmers are on hand, showing their livestock and selling their produce – from pumpkins to peppers and a whole lot more.

FOR THE LITTLE ONES If your kids aren’t interested in shopping or wandering through the stalls, there is an area just for them with a bouncy castle, playground, face painting, and traditional games such as hopscotch and rope jumping. here’s also the petting zoo, popular with kids of all ages, where you can pet baby goats and pigs, and rabbits.

No agricultural show is complete

without a rodeo, and Grand Cayman doesn’t disappoint. In the equestrian ring, you can watch barrel racing and dressage. here are even mini ponies for the kids to ride. he biggest draw at the more recent shows has been the Children’s Cookof Competition. Kids ages 8-18 get the chance to show of their culinary skills using the products on sale at the show.

Chefs from some of the island’s top restaurants judge the competition and the top 4 best junior cooks win scholarships to help further their culinary schooling.

You won’t go hungry as there are many stalls selling local foods for you to try, such as turtle, whelks, conch, and fresh fruit juices. here’s even a ish fry so you can indulge in fresh, locally caught ish.

YEAR ROUND FARMERS MARKET Can’t make it to the agricultural show?

There are two Farmers Markets on Grand Cayman to help tide you over. he Farmer’s Market on Huldah Avenue next to the cricket ield is open six days a week and is always busy with locals

doing their shopping. he Farmer’s and Artisan Market at Camana Bay is held every Wednesday on the Paseo, so you can let the kids play in the fountains while you shop for dinner.

Both have everything, including local produce, crafts and other locally made items like Pepper Jelly and Silver Thatch. Stop in on your way to Rum Point to pick up some road trip snacks or groceries for your time on the island.

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CALENDAR of EVENTS CARNIVAL BATABANO

NOVEMBER 2016 DECEMBER 2016 NOVEMBER 26TH – DECEMBER 3RD GIMISTORY he annual Cayman Islands International Storytelling Festival, also known as Gimistory, celebrates the national pastime of storytelling. Since 1998 the festival has been bringing storytellers from across North America to entertain young and old alike. he festival takes place across the island on beaches, in parks and even in private homes, and admission is free.

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DECEMBER 4TH CAYMAN THANKSGIVING Celebrated on the irst Sunday in December, Cayman hanksgiving is a time to be thankful and celebrate family. Residents mark the day by inviting people into their homes to share a traditional Caymanian-style meal.

Visitors without the means to cook can participate by heading to a local restaurant to sample some scrumptious Caymanian cuisine.

DECEMBER 3RD PARADE OF LIGHTS Held in the harbour of Camana Bay, the Parade of Lights is an annual Christmas traditional where local boat owners decorate their vessels with beautiful light displays and sail around the harbour.

There are competitions for best decorations in 2 size categories.

Afterwards, you can enjoy live music, food and drink, shopping in the Christmas Market, and a magnificent fireworks display to cap off the evening.

DECEMBER 4TH CAYMAN ISLANDS MARATHON Now into its 14th year, the Cayman Islands Marathon is a lat and fast IAAFsanctioned course through some of the most picturesque neighbourhoods on the island. here is a race for everyone with a full marathon, halfmarathon, 4-person relay, and a Kids Fun Run. To help motivate the runners there will be music along the routes as runner’s make their way through some of the island’s more picturesque neighbourhoods.

JANUARY 2017 JANUARY 12TH – 15TH CAYMAN COOKOUT Join Chef Eric Ripert and an unparalleled roster of renowned chefs and wine and spirits experts to celebrate food, spirits, and wine in Caribbean barefoot elegance. One of the most interactive culinary events in the world, Cayman Cookout is hosted at the Ritz-Carlton and features an incredible weekend of tastings, tours, dinners, and demonstrations by some of the top chefs, master spirit blenders, and sommeliers in the world.

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JANUARY 19 – 23 MUZAIC FESTIVAL Every year Cayman

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celebrates its musical heritage at the Muzaic Festival. Held on the Heroes’ Day long weekend, learn and discover more about Caymanian musicians and performers with a busy schedule of concerts, performances, and an awards ceremony. Recent performers at the festival include Stuart Wilson, Mainstream and Sea N B. he events are held at various spots around the island and most are free admission.

JANUARY 28TH TASTE OF CAYMAN FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL Every year Grand Cayman’s hospitality industry gathers at Camana Bay for the oneday Taste of Cayman Food

and Drink Festival. Highly anticipated, thousands line up to sample delectable food, wine, and cocktails from over 45 of the island’s top restaurants and distributors. here will be rales, awards for the best creations, and both local and international performers to keep you in the festive mood.

FEBRUARY 2017 FEBRUARY 8TH – 11TH CAYMAN ARTS FESTIVAL EXTRA Held on the of years of the Cayman Arts Festival, the Cayman Arts Festival eXtra is a smaller version of the hugely popular festival and was created to bridge the gap.

Festival eXtra is perfect for all lovers, students and teachers

GIMISTORY

of the performing arts with musical performances by both local and international artists and workshops.

FEBRUARY (DATE TBC) LEGENDS AT CAMANA BAY Every year the Festival Green at Camana Bay plays host to Tennis Hall of Fame legends, former #1 players and Grand Slam Champions for two nights of incredible exhibition tennis. It’s a great event that lets you watch some of the best players in the game under the stars; past appearances include Jim Courier, Andy Roddick, and Anna Kournikova.

FEBRUARY 23RD – 25TH CAYFEST Cayfest is Cayman’s greatest showcase of homegrown talent. he Cayman Islands National Festival of the Arts features a diverse combination of ilm, fashion design, visual arts, music, and culture. Included is the Red Sky at Night, a garden festival held under the stars with live performances by storytellers, dancers, and actors, local crafts and food, and astronomers.

FEBRUARY 27 TH – MARCH 3RD CAYMAN MARDI GRAS Now into its 3rd year, Cayman Mardi Gras attracts thousands of people and boasts an international lineup of performers and musicians. Mardi Gras 2017 coincides with the 10th anniversary of CayBrew, the local beer, and will be celebrated for a full week starting on February 27 with

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the Monday Food Festival and EDM Ash Wednesday, plus plenty of concerts, street fetes, and parties.

MARCH 2017 MARCH 1ST AGRICULTURAL SHOW (GRAND CAYMAN) he Grand Cayman Agricultural Show is celebrating its 50th anniversary on Ash Wednesday. Learn more

about the rich agricultural history of the island while sampling dishes from each of the island’s ive districts. here will also be entertainment, a rodeo, a craft market with locally made items, and the popular Children’s Cook-of, where junior chefs compete for scholarship assistance.

MARCH 8TH – 12TH POINCIANA FESTIVAL he Poinciana Festival celebrates and showcases

CAYMAN ARTS FESTIVAL EXTRA

GRACE BYERS Shining Caymanian Star

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elf-described as a small island girl with big dreams, Grace Byers née Gealey was destined for greatness.

Born in Butler, Pennsylvania to an American father and Caymanian mother, Grace, her older sister, Faith, and their mother moved to Grand Cayman at the tender age of two-yearsold and settled in the laidback district of Bodden Town.

She was formally introduced to acting from local painter, poet, writer and performing artist Nasaria Suckoo-Chollette, who taught Drama at Grace’s high school in Grand Cayman but her sister recalls even as a young child Grace was often fully enthralled in a game of “dress up” and enjoyed entertaining her family with little performances. As a young adult, she also studied under the mentorship of Henry Muttoo, local director and backbone of the Cayman National Cultural Foundation (CNCF), and was surrounded by a family of singers and actors involved in the local performing arts industry.

Even so, she confessed that she’d never seriously considered a career in acting – it went against the grain of professions conventionally sought in Cayman: tourism and financial services – but ultimately decided to teach theatre and pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts with a minor in Education at the University of South Florida. It was during her studies that Grace realised that pursuing a career as a professional actor was a feasible possibility for a young Caymanian like herself and made the decision to follow her heart. She moved to California and began her Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of California Irvine, specialising in acting.

JOURNEY TO STARDOM While her career today spans multiple performances in major metropolitan cities like Chicago, Los Angeles and New York City – including the lead role “Mimi” in the landmark musical Rent – appearances in short films and some national commercials, Grace admits it was not an easy road to

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stardom and her current role in FOX’s highest-rated series premier since 2012, Empire, which aired in January 2015. She juggled several odd jobs during the early days and worried at one point that she would not be able to surpass the “starving artist” life which an overwhelming amount of performers often struggle in, and often accepted smaller acting gigs without pay in order to network and get her foot further in the industry.

Today, however, at 32-years-old, Grace is a shining example for young Caymanians, rubbing shoulders with Academy-Award nominee Terrence Howard, Emmy Award-nominee Taraji P. Henson and Academy Award-nominee Gabourney Sidibe, mostly known for her debut role in the 1999 movie Precious.

In spite of her growing career pressures, Grace immerses herself in the local arts scene when she can, and has been involved in the CNCF Young Arts Summer Intensive Programme in the past, helping other young performers realise their potential and fine-tune their craft, and, in 2016, she was awarded the CNCF Star for Creativity in the Arts Gold for her continued contribution to performing arts in Cayman.

local ilmmakers, musicians, and artists; both established and emerging. Now into its 2nd year, the festival includes ilm screenings, art and music displays, documentaries, and an awards gala.

APRIL 2017 APRIL (DATE TBC) CAYMAN ISLANDS INTERNATIONAL FISHING TOURNAMENT his four-day tournament takes place at the end of April with hundreds of professional and novice anglers from around the world competing for the Heaviest Blue Marlin, Yellowin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo. he tournament is in its 20th year, and the jackpot is estimated to be over US$100,000.

APRIL 29 TH CARNIVAL JUNIOR BATABANO Watch the kids get into

the Carnival spirit at the Junior Batabano. Held the weekend before the main Carnival Batabano, there’s a Family Fun Day with face painting, mask decorations, games, music, and food. hen the kids hit the street with their very own Carnival Batabano Road Parade. It’s a great, safe way for kids to enjoy and learn more about Carnival.

MAY 2017 MAY 7 TH CARNIVAL BATABANO Join in the celebration as Cayman celebrates Carnival Batabano. here will be street fetes and concerts with many local and international artists and DJ’s, and the signature costumed road parade when thousands of residents and visitors dress up in vibrant costumes to jump along West Bay Road into George Town replete with loats and live music.

CAYMAN ISLANDS INTERNATIONAL FISHING TOURNAMENT

PROFILE

JASON GILBERT From George Town to the Grammys

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ason Gilbert, also known as JG, is a Grammy award-winning record producer and songwriter born and raised in the Cayman Islands.

Growing up, Jason’s dad was a local DJ and Jason would often tag along to his gigs, helping carry crates of records and equipment. Being around music helped him develop a love for it, but it wasn’t until he was 13 that he got hooked on the mechanics of making music after watching his neighbour make beats. He locked himself in his room day and night, forgoing friends, sports, and the typical teenage activities to work on producing beats.

Eventually, Jason moved to Miami to attend university, but his real passion was music, and he admits that the only reason he stayed at university to get his Masters in Finance was so that he could continue working on music with the renowned producer Supa Dups.

After graduation, Jason moved back to Grand Cayman and briefly worked in investment banking before following his heart back to the music industry. He continued working on a slew of projects state-side, but it was when he won a Grammy for his work on Eminem’s Recovery album in 2011 that his career took off. Since then, he has produced for a host of international artists, including Akon, Christina Aguilera, and Machel Montano.

The Cayman Islands has always been a melting pot of people and their music, which he believes has been a blessing for him. Being exposed to every genre of music while growing up helped him develop as a musician and has given him the ability to play everything from reggae to country.

Jason spent several years living and working in Miami and Los Angeles. After his wife gave birth to twins, they decided to move back to Cayman so they could be closer to their families and let their kids grow up in the same environment that they did.

Since being home, Jason has continued to produce and write music and started the Local Artist Initiative and The B Club programs to help local musicians gain exposure and experience on both sides of the studio console.

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JUNE 2017 JUNE 10TH – 12TH FLOWERS SEA SWIM Now into its 25th year, the Flowers Sea Swim is considered one of the world’s top open water swims with distances of 1 mile, 5K and 10K. Held in the crystal clear waters of Seven Mile Beach, the race attracts swimmers from all over the world including Olympian and amateur swimmers. All registration proceeds go to the Cayman Islands Cancer Society.

JUNE 30TH – JULY 3RD CAYFILM FESTIVAL he Cayman Islands International Film Festival CayFilm is an annual multiday event with daily ilm

screenings, Q & A sessions with industry professionals, workshops, exclusive premieres, awards, and a celebrity gala.

CayFilm is held in conjunction with the Cayman Underwater Film Festival, an international festival showcasing the underwater ilm industry.

CAYMAN ISLANDS TRIATHLON

SEPTEMBER 2017 SEPTEMBER 29 TH INTERNATIONAL SCUBA HALL OF FAME he annual International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner showcases and pays tribute to the pioneers of the sport. Divers, entrepreneurs, and artists that have contributed to dive travel, education, development,

equipment design, and adventure are recognised for their eforts. Past recipients include Philippe Cousteau Sr and Stuart Cove.

OCTOBER 2017 OCTOBER 1ST – 31ST CAYMAN RESTAURANT MONTH During the entire month of October, you can enjoy delicious 2-course and 3-course lunches and dinners at some of Cayman’s top restaurant. Specially crafted Prix ixe meals with pricing starting at just $10 for lunch and $25 for dinner means you can aford to revisit your favourite restaurants or discover new ones more often.

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OCTOBER 27 TH – NOVEMBER 3RD CAYMAN COCKTAIL WEEK Celebrate the art of

mixology with Cayman Cocktail Week. here will be 7 days of cocktail events, dinners, and classes with some of the island’s best bartenders, bars, and restaurants. Learn how to master the martini, sample a light of sake or try some of the inest rums the Caribbean has to ofer. If you enjoy libations, this is the event you’ve been waiting for.

NOVEMBER 2017 NOVEMBER 5TH CAYMAN ISLANDS TRIATHLON With lat roads, calm seas, and year-round sunshine, Cayman is the perfect spot for a triathlon. It will be the event’s 20th anniversary in 2017, and its popularity has grown to almost 200 athletes taking part in both the individual and team races. It’s a real test of skill

as athletes bike, swim and run on and around Grand Cayman.

NOVEMBER 9 TH – 19 TH PIRATES WEEK Every November the country celebrates its heritage and pays homage to its pirate connections with Pirates Week Festival. his annual 10-day festival in November features a mock pirate invasion in Grand Cayman and Heritage Days across Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. It’s a great time to be a pirate with spectacular ireworks, live music, costume competitions, street games, food festivals, and a Children’s Fun Fair Day.

NOVEMBER 25TH – DECEMBER 3RD GIMISTORY he annual Cayman Islands International Storytelling Festival, also known as Gimistory, celebrates the national pastime of storytelling. Since 1998 the festival has been bringing storytellers from across North America to entertain young and old alike. he festival takes place across the island on beaches, in parks and even in private homes, and admission is free.

Please note that our Events Calendar begins and ends on the US hanksgiving Holiday and that all dates listed above are subject to change.

PIRATES WEEK

PROFILE

FRANK E. FLOWERS Cayman’s Kind of Storytelling

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ou don’t have to be in Cayman long before you learn that Caymanians are natural storytellers.

Growing up in this environment Frank soon developed a love for the art of storytelling and turned his love into a career as an independent filmmaker, screenwriter, and director.

Growing up in George Town, Frank was the first grandchild of Clarence Flowers, M.B.E, a prominent businessman and founder of the Flowers Group of Companies, and was expected to take over the reins of the family business. Instead, he followed his own path.

He began volunteering at the Cayman National Culture Foundation at the age of 13, participating in a few productions of the local comedy revue Rundown and acting in the first production of Frank McField’s drama Playground. Once he finished high school, Frank spent a gap year as an on-air presenter at a local radio station and worked behind the scenes at the local TV station. He enjoyed the work but he was soon off to the University of Southern California School of CinemaTelevision where his focus soon shifted from acting to directing, screenwriting, and producing.

His first project out of university was ‘Swallow’, a short film that he wrote and directed in 2003 and for which he won 4 awards. Next was his first feature motion picture, ‘Haven’, that was filmed entirely on Grand Cayman. Based on his experiences growing up on the island, Haven was Frank’s debut as a director/ writer and helped earn him the HBO Director to Watch Award in 2006.

He hasn’t slowed down since then and has subsequently co-written the Sundance awardwinning movie ‘Metro Manila’, produced and wrote several episodes of ‘The Ropes’ TV series, and directed several music videos for musical artists such as Damian Marley and Jessica Sutta. He’s also been commissioned to write a biopic about the early years of basketball great LeBron James.

In 2016 the Cayman Islands Film Festival CayFILM celebrated the 10th anniversary of the release of Haven and recognised the impact it had on an entire generation of Caymanian filmmakers by creating the Frank E. Flowers Local Filmmaker Award.

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SHOPPING MADE IN CAYMAN AND DUTY FREE

SHOPPING

uty-free shopping is one of the top reasons people visit Grand Cayman as shoppers can expect to save up to 40% of the retail prices of luxury goods when compared with the UK and US. Not interested in the traditional duty-free shopping? here’s also a plethora of unique, local items available – from handmade shell jewellery to art and traditional silver thatch pieces.

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Tax and duty-free shopping have its advantages here are some great deals to be had when purchasing jewellery, watches, cigars crystal and other luxury goods because many items are sold without importation duties or sales tax. However, that’s only part of the equation. he jewellery and watch inventory on Grand Cayman is simply incredible, with the selection being comparable to shopping districts in Las Vegas or NYC. he retailers on this little island house some of the world’s best brands and they tend to stock rare and limited edition pieces given the high number of luxury buyers who visit and reside on the island.

What does tax-free Cayman have to offer?

Jewellery is most commonly associated with duty-free shopping because of the signiicant savings. Jewellery stores on the island offer a stunning selection of precious gemstones including diamonds, tanzanite, sapphire, and pearls. Brands of note include Hearts on Fire, John Hardy, Cartier, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto and Chopard but there are many more.

Watches have been a part of Cayman duty-free history for 50 years. Brands include Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Ulysse Nardin, Hermes, Omega, Breitling, Oris, Tissot, Movado, Tag Heuer, and Michele just to name a few.

Sunglasses include Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Rayban, Maui Jim, Coach, Oakey and many others.

Cigars include many Cuban brands like Cohiba, Monte Cristo, Romeo y Julieta, Partagas, and some from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic.

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Savings can also be found on perfume, china, crystal, spirits, and our world-famous rum cakes!

While many of the big shops are in George Town there are many small malls and standalone stores throughout the island with great quality duty-free and local items.

Shopping in Cayman is certainly a value proposition. Surprisingly, though, it’s not the real reason for most luxury purchases. Whatever you choose to call it, it’s about the expression of love in countless forms. Whether it’s someone treating themselves or treating others, let’s bask in the glow of making ourselves and others happy and cherish and capture those moments in our hearts. And it’s those moments we celebrate and remember the rest of our lives.

What can you bring back?

US CITIZENS • Goods worth up to USD$800 • Up to 1 litres of alcohol • Up to 200 cigarettes and 100 non-Cuban cigars CANADIAN CITIZENS • Goods worth up to CAN$800 • Up to 1.5 litres of wine or 1.14 litres of alcoholic beverages or up to 8.5 litres of beer • Up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco and 200 tobacco sticks EU CITIZENS • Goods worth up to 430 • Up to 1 litres of spirits • Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars • No restriction on fragrances

Please note these are only guidelines and are subject to change, please check your respective government’s customs website for up-to-date restrictions.

SHOPPING

store also carries a variety of authentic antique maps of the West Indies.

BEACH BUBBLES CAYMAN Located in Bodden Town, Beach Bubbles Cayman is a boutique body care shop that sells only 100% natural soaps, creams, lotions, and more. hey even have an allnatural mosquito repellant and can custom make products for you. Handmade on site by the store’s owner Nina, many of the products use local ingredients such as Neem, Moringa, Coconut, and Mango, and have earned the store loyal customers all over the world, who stock up on their favourite products anytime they visit the island.

SHOPPING CAYMAN Take a piece of the Cayman Islands home with you

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uying f ine jeweller y a nd expensive items is exciting, and the savings can be well worth the trip. However, ma ny travellers want to bring home something that genuinely represents the destination and can’t be found anywhere else. he local items below represent the beauty and history of Cayman, from limited edition watches to locally made products.

CAYMANITE A semi-precious rock found only in the craggy clifs of Cayman Brac and the jagged crust in Grand Cayman’s East End; Caymanite occurs in layers of various earth tones such as brown, yellow, and white.

Once professionally cut and polished, its

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radiant hues will transform any item or piece of jewellery into a truly unique Caymanian present. A souvenir that’s as old as the islands themselves.

Caymanite jewellery and products are available at: • Kirk Freeport [623-7477] • Island Jewellers [640-5249] • Rocky’s Diamond Gallery [946-7851]

ARTIFACTS Located on the George Town waterfront, Artifacts specialises in a variety of antiques including treasure coins salvaged from shipwrecks around the Caribbean and the world. hese gold and silver coins’ date back to the early 1600’s and are favourite necklace pendants by locals and visitors alike. he

ORIS KITTIWAKE LE PRO DIVER WATCH To commemorate the sinking of the Kittiwake off the coast of Grand Cayman, Swiss luxury watchmaker Oris created the Kittiwake LE ProDiver watch.

Limited to only 500 pieces (and only 38 left at time of writing) the watch is available in a ProDiver titanium case with “Rotation Safety System” and features: • The Kittiwake logo displayed on the back • Wave printing on the black dial • Superluminova filled indexes • Water resistant to 100bar (1000m)

The watch is sold exclusively at Island Companies stores Island Time [9497098] and The Mansion [6405337], and for every watch sold

SHOPPING

limited editions of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Cayman Islands dive watch.

The watches feature 2 Guy Harvey drawings (a sea turtle for two ladies’ versions and a marlin in the men’s version) and are available exclusively at Kirk Freeport [6237477] stores. Royalties go directly to the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation to fund education, scientific research, and best practices for sustainable marine environments.

TED GREEN FRAGRANCES

there will be a donation of US$200 to the preservation and maintenance of the Kittiwake artiicial reef project. he perfect gift to remember and savour your adventure to the Kittiwake reef.

PEPPER PATCH PEPPER JELLY Used by locals as a spread and condiment, pepper jelly has been around as long as anyone can remember. However, when longtime resident Carol Hay couldn’t ind one that she liked, she decided to make her own. Pepper Patch Pepper Jelly combines the iery hotness of local and Scotch Bonnet peppers (grown in her backyard), West Indian seasoning and a few secret ingredients. It is used on everything including crackers, cheese, pizza, and salad vinaigrette. he jelly is only available in the Cayman Islands and is sold in all supermarkets and many souvenir shops.

TAG HEUER AQUARACER CAYMAN ISLANDS DIVE WATCH Legendary Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer has partnered with marine wildlife artist and scientist Guy Harvey to create three

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Driven by his desire to put Cayman on the map, local entrepreneur Ted Green developed the Banana Orchid Eau de Parfum in 2010. he scent is named after the country’s national f lower and is reminiscent of the islands’ local lora with other exotic undertones. Take home the scent of the Cayman Islands with this unique keepsake. he fragrance is only available in the Cayman Islands at Kirk Freeport [623-7477] and Caymania Duty-free stores as well as Silhouette Boutique in Camana Bay and through Ted’s website. hese are only some of the fabulous items available on the islands that will help you to remember your trip to our little tropical paradise. here are many more products just waiting to be discovered, so keep a watch as you enjoy the islands.

TORTUGA RUM AND RUM CAKES Founded in 1984 in the Cayman Islands by Robert and Carlene Hamaty, Tortuga Rum Company has become a global brand with the great success of the rum cake and award winning rum. Tortuga is a staple throughout the Carribean, but all roads lead back to where it began, their factory in the heart of Georgetown, Grand Cayman.

You can visit their factory or any one of their 14 retail locations throughout Grand Cayman and the Brac.

SHOPPING

Tips On BUYING GEMS DIAMONDS Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, be sure to buy the best using the four criteria below to determine their value: • Colour is frequently graded on a scale and rated from D (top) to Z (lowest).

• Cut refers to the quality of how the diamond has been shaped and accounts for the polish, proportion, and symmetry.

• Clarity measures the natural imperfections or flaws in the stone and is rated from flawless to I3. Note: A diamond can only be described as “flawless” if there are no visible internal or surface flaws when viewed under 10-power magnification by a skilled diamond grader.

• Carat measures the stone’s weight.

A diamond’s weight is usually stated in carats and may be deined as a decimal or fractional part of a carat. A diamond described as ½ carat could weigh between .47 and .54 carat. If a diamond’s weight is stated as a fraction of a carat, the retailer should disclose the reasonable range of weight for each fraction or the weight tolerance being used and that the weight of the diamond is not exact.

be treated (in a manner to improve their appearance), and some can be rare and expensive.

Laboratory-created stones (also referred to as synthetic) have the same physical, chemical, and visual properties as natural gemstones, but don’t have the same value or rarity.

SIZING Gemstones may be measured by size, weight, or both. Like diamonds, carats are the basic unit for weighing gemstones and are equal to 1/5th of a gram or 0.007 of an ounce. However, each gemstone has a diferent density which can contribute to its weight.

TREATMENTS Gemstone treatments are the manners in

which some stones are treated to improve their durability, appearance, or even colouring. he efects of some treatments aren’t permanent and may diminish or change over time, and some may require special care. You should also be aware that some treatments can afect the value of a gemstone when measured against a similar untreated stone. Some conventional treatments including heating, fracture illing, difusion, irradiation, dyeing, and bleaching.

TANZANITE TREATMENTS All gemstone’s, including diamonds, may be treated

to improve their appearance and clarity. Some common treatments include fracture illing and lasering.

GEMSTONES Natural gemstones occur naturally around the world; some can

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A rare and coveted gemstone, Tanzanite is 1000 rarer than diamonds because they’re only found in Tanzania. he larger stones reach the deeply saturated violet or blue colouring, and smaller stones (weighing less than a carat) are typically a lighter periwinkle colour.

Tanzanite is softer than many gems so caution should be

SHOPPING

taken when wearing tanzanite rings or bracelets.

Unfortunately, there are no standard quality grading scales (although some vendors might create their own quality descriptions, such as AAA, AA, A) but the following four criteria should help you to buy the best quality stone.

What to look for: • Carat weight • Clarity refers to any inclusions or natural flaws, ranging from Eye Clean to Heavily included • Colour quality and degree of saturation. The deeper the colour, the rarer the stone • Cut refers to proportions, finish, and brilliance

PEARLS he iconic piece of jewellery, pearls invoke a sense of nostalgia and history. Natural pearls are extremely rare, most were harvested and today they are an expensive rarity.

FRESHWATER CULTURED PEARLS Freshwater cultured

pearls often have a medium to high lustre, asymmetrical shape, measure between 3.5 mm and 7.0 mm, and are mostly white, but can have a pink or rose tint.

TAHITIAN CULTURED PEARLS Tahitian cultured pearls are farmed on the volcanic reefs and atolls of Tahiti, range in size from 11mm to 13mm, have a rich, high lustre, are a unique black to grayish-green colour, and are mostly round. Due to their unique look and scarcity, they tend to cost more than other pearls.

AKOYA CULTURED PEARLS Akoya cultured pearls are

a type of saltwater pearl from Japan and China that have few blemishes, a round, symmetrical shape, and measure between 6 mm and 8.5 mm. hey have a light colour ranging from cream to pink/white and a higher lustre than freshwater.

SOUTH SEA CULTURED PEARLS South Sea cultured

pearls are farmed in Australia, the Philippines and Indonesia, range in colour from black to white and measure up to 13 mm. hey are medium to high lustre and can have a perfectly round to slightly asymmetrical shape.

No matter the type of pearl you choose, six factors determine their value: 1. Luster 2. Nacre thickness 3. Surface texture 4. Color 5. Shape 6. Size

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C A M A N A B AY

CAMANA BAY A TOWN WITH ALL THE FACILITIES

C A M A N A B AY

DID YOU KNOW? The 75-foot Observation Tower features a stunning mosaic made up of millions of Italian glass tiles depicting a scene from a dive off Little Cayman’s renowned Bloody Bay Wall.

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his destination within a destination da zzles a ll who visit with its stunning architecture, numerous shops, restaurants and services and active events calendar. A vibrant town located in the heart of Grand Cayman, Camana Bay is situated on 600 acres between Seven Mile Beach and the North Sound. he Harbour transports visitors by boat to Stingray City or Rum Point while the endless public spaces – from grassy lawns to landscaped courtyards – ofer a moment of rest and shade to while away lazy days. his mixed-use master-planned community was developed by Dart Realty (Cayman) Ltd. in collaboration with an award-winning team

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of visionaries and is one of the irst examples of New Urbanism in the Caribbean. Here locals and visitors alike can slow down, enjoy life and appreciate the beauty of the island.

CULINARY DELIGHTS Camana Bay is one of the top dining destinations in the Caribbean and offers something for every palate. From top-tier restaurants ofering unique dining experiences and special events that draw gourmands to Grand Cayman to cafes and speciality eateries such as Gelato & Co. [324-4359] every occasion is catered for. Open 7 days a week, Gelato & Co serves delicious gelato and sorbets made from scratch using the very best raw and natural ingredients.

FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

Camana Bay’s chefs are passionate about farm-to-table cuisine, working closely with local farmers in the weekly Farmers & Artisans Market to ensure they use the freshest local produce in their menu creations, as well as in their contributions to the weekly dining adventure, The Flavour Tour. Beginning at noon every Wednesday along he Paseo, guests can shop The Farmers & Artisans Market for locally grown fruits, vegetables and farm goods then browse artisanal foods and handcrafted products as live entertainment carries the Market into the early evening.

THE FLAVOUR TOUR A guided dining adventure that features local ingredients from the Farmers & Artisans Market presented in the signature styles of Camana Bay’s restaurants, he Flavour Tour takes guests on a tasting experience of four restaurants where they are greeted with small plate courses complemented with a cocktail. Tours are offered on

Wednesdays; visit camanabay.com/ lavour-tour for more information.

SHOPPING IN STYLE he shops feature internationally known brands as well as local finds. You’ll ind everything from gourmet cooking gear to gorgeous bedding and gifts to international apparel brands at Silhouette [943-5223]. Silhouette carries a broad range of pyjamas, intimates, athletic wear and bridal wear from top brands such as Calvin Klein and Betsey Johnson. Browse the family-friendly shops and boutiques and choose souvenirs to take to those back home. And don’t forget to post selies of shopping purchases from the Town Centre’s many shops using the free Wi-Fi.

FUN FOR ALL AGES There’s always something happening at Camana Bay. Whether it’s children splashing in the fountains on a Friday night or a celebrity chef cooking at a major event, you’ll discover delightful adventures all year round. he calendar

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CAMANA BAY:

BY THE NUMBERS

2007

Year that the first phase of the Town Centre opens, with cinemas, Books & Books and 62 Forum Lane offices

3,000,000 Bisazza Venetian glass tiles comprising The Observation Tower’s undersea mosaic

63

Number of residential apartments available for lease in the Town Centre

30 feet

Height in feet of the skyward bursts from The Crescent fountain Boat slips in the Camana Bay Harbour

600

Number of acres that Camana Bay spans

Height in feet of The Observation Tower

5

28

75 feet

Number of courtyards that the Town Centre has, each featuring local flora

30%

Percentage of the Town Centre designated as public space – a greater percentage than most neighbourhoods Number of screens in Regal Cinemas

6

360° Degree view of Grand Cayman from the top of The Observation Tower

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SOCIAL MEDIA For more information on Camana Bay, visit CamanaBay.com, like Camana Bay on Facebook, follow @CamanaBay on Twitter and @Camana_Bay on Instagram.

includes once-a-year events that are beloved traditions, such as the annual holiday tree lighting and seasonal movies under the stars with the Moonlight & Movies series; regular rituals like Sunday brunches and Story Time; and daily gatherings among friends and families in restaurants, at the cinema and in the beautiful public spaces.

IN PURSUIT OF WELLNESS As a New Urbanist development designed to encourage walkability, Camana Bay is committed to helping visitors stay active and well. Share how you stay healthy at Camana Bay on social media with the hashtag #CamanaBay. Keep active by climbing T he Observation Tower or riding bikes along the scenic routes throughout the Town Centre. No one is arguing if the best way to squeeze in your 10,000 steps is by shopping, either – with more than 40 shops and speciality boutiques, there’s plenty to keep you pounding the pavements. he weekly Farmers & Artisans Market ofers the freshest in local produce and goods –

challenge yourself to try a new vegetable each week – or choose a lunch or snack, packed with Whole Life Challenge-compliant dishes and organic and vegetarian options.

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT Camana Bay will be providing people with even more opportunities to live, work and play as the Town Centre expands its residential, office and retail and leisure oferings over the next few years.

One Nexus Way – a new mixed-use building on the south side of Camana Bay – will open by fall 2017. In addition, a new 100-foot bridge connecting Camana Bay’s Town Centre to he Festival Green will allow access this year to both vehicles and pedestrians. Boats up to 18 feet will also be able to pass underneath.

Moviegoers were also recently treated to upgrades at Regal Cinemas, including a new V IP auditorium with luxury reclining chairs and the latest audio-visual technology. A reit of the concession area now ofers an even wider selection of hot and cold food and beverage choices.

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DINING FOOD AND FUN AFTER DARK

& Nightlife

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DID YOU KNOW? Many waterfront restaurants hold daily Tarpon feedings (Rackams, Wharf, Casanova’s and Lobster Pot) and Frigate Bird feedings (Tukka).

elcome to the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Cayman has over 200 restaurants and food vendors on the three islands, serving everything from turtle stew (a local delicacy) to 5-star gourmet culinary dreams. A foodie’s paradise, the island is home to 135 nationalities and a cataclysm of culinary options.

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FESTIVALS FOR FOOD LOVERS CAYMAN COOKOUT is one of the world’s

most interactive culinary events. Founded by world-famous chef Eric Ripert, the fourday event includes luxurious dinners, live demonstrations, tastings, and Barefoot Beach BBQs by some of the best in the wine, spirits, and culinary worlds. It’s not every day that you can eat food personally cooked by elite chefs like Jose Andres, Emeril Lagasse, and Terrance Brennan or listen irst hand to tales from Anthony Bourdain’s colourful travels.

TASTE OF CAYMAN FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL is a food lover’s dream. Held every

January in Camana Bay, attendees can sample

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delicious food and wine from over 45 of the island’s best restaurants while listening to musicians and performers on the main stage. Enjoy old favourites or ind new ones while taking part in one of the year’s biggest social traditions.

BECOME A LOCAVORE ON YOUR TRAVELS Join the local food movement and get up close and personal with the people who produce your food. Locavores help to promote and support local farmers, ranchers, and ishermen while eating ultra fresh, delectable meals.

L e S ole i l d ’Or [9 4 8 - 0555] on Cayman Brac has taken control of their farm to table and sea to table experience with their private 20acre organic garden and dedicated fishermen that supply their bakery, bar, ice cream shop, and restaurants. he garden is tended by 11 full-time gardeners who ensure that everything served – from condiments to beverages

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– is grown in-house.

Cayman Cabana holds week ly Locavore dinners, sourcing their food from local farmers and the ishermen who have their daily market next door.

From local pumpkin soup to coconut ceviche and yellowin tuna, everything is fresh and bursting with lavour.

OPTIONS FOR THE HERBIVORE Normally on islands, vegetarian and vegan restaurants are scarce. Not so in Grand Cayman. While most restaurants have options for the nonmeat eaters in your group, there is a selection of restaurants who cater speciically for vegetarians and vegans.

In the heart of George Town lies a little cafe with great food. Bread and Chocolate boasts a 100% animal-free breakfast and lunch menu so delicious even the carnivores are lining up. hey also have gluten-free options and treats for those with a sweet tooth.

ISLAND NATURALS CAFE

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

CALYPSO GRILL

Island Naturals Cafe lies in the heart of Seven Mile Beach and features a menu illed with natural and organic vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items.

Looking for natural products? hey also have a retail store where you can buy everything natural from protein powders to organic herbs.

Town, The White House [946-5500] is the perfect place to escape, with a 6,000 sq. ft. deck over the sea, delectable food in the Gatsby Ocean Restaurant, and beach lounge chairs to take in the panoramic sea views and white sand beach.

EAT LIKE A LOCAL

TIKI BEACH On the northern part of Seven Mile

You can’t visit a country without trying the local delicacies and Cayman doesn’t disappoint. he rich heritage and multicultural nature of the islands can be tasted in the lavours of local favourites such as turtle stew, conch fritters, and just about anything jerk. Most restaurants have local dishes on the menu but to have an authentic local experience, stop by local restaurants such as Champion House [949-7882], Peppers, and the jerk stands and ish fries you’ll see along the roadside on your travels around the island.

You’ll be treated to delicious home-made food and likely a story or two.

Beach, Tiki Beach [743-6616] has a huge beach bar and waterfront restaurant serving tropical cuisine and signature Caribbean drinks, alongside a water sports shop for those who are feeling adventurous.

RESTAURANT RECOMMENDATIONS GRAND OLD HOUSE Originally built as the Petra

Plantation House in South Sound in 1908, Grand Old House [949-9333] is one of the top ine dining restaurants on the island and is known for their spectacular oceanside location, award winning chefs, and incredible wine collection.

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THE WHITE HOUSE On the outskirts of Bodden

OSETRA BAY Situated on the waterfront of Morgan’s

Harbour, Osetra Bay [325-5000] is a fusion of St Tropez lair and South Beach ambience with three lounges and an exceptional dining room that are open for dinner.

ROYAL PALMS AND RISTORANTE PRIMA Royal

Palms [945-6358] is one of the island’s best-known beach bars, with beach activities, great cocktails, and live entertainment; while it’s sister restaurant Ristorante Prima serves contemporary Italian cuisine in the evenings.

CHAMPION HOUSE Located in the heart of George Town since 1988, Champion House [949-7882] serves exceptional local cuisine as well as daily breakfast

LOOKING FOR THE BEST PLACES TO EAT IN CAYMAN? The Cayman Dining Guide has in-depth details, including menu highlights, of the best places to eat, including best local food, best beach bar, and more.

MENU HIGHLIGHTS Appetisers Conch Fritters $5.00 Ground conch mixed with onions, peppers, garlic in a seasoned batter and served with a spicy sauce.

Stuffed Plantains $5.00 Ripe plantains stuffed with your choice of sautéed shrimp or turtle.

Mains Fillet Snapper $12.00 Served as escovitched, Cayman style, or steamed.

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sk most islanders where to get local food, and they will send you to Champion House.

Yes, Champion House is where the locals dine and have been serving up home-cooked authentic island food for more than 40 years.

We cook with fresh herbs and spices and don’t use MSG. We serve A La Carte meals and also have a super popular breakfast buffet with local foods such as ackee & codfish, mackerel, fish, chicken, eggs, bread, fruits, callaloo, dumplings, breadfruit, plantains, potatoes, and porridge (hot cereals). We also have daily lunch and dinner buffets and a Sunday brunch featuring many of the favourite island specials, such as BBQs, curries, stews, rice & beans, salads, and soups.

We invite you to stop by to experience Cayman hospitality and great island food on your vacation.

Visit our website for our specials, events, and other outdoors activities.

43 EASTERN AVENUE, GEORGE TOWN GRAND CAYMAN, CAYMAN ISLANDS

Champion House Delight $18.00 Chicken, shrimp, fish, and lobster sautéed in a tasty wine sauce.

Desserts Cassava cake $3.00 Cayman heavy cake made with grated cassava, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. We dare you to try it.

Key lime Pie $3.00 A tangy creamy lime filling on a crumb crust.

CHEF’S RECOMMENDATIONS Appetiser Marinated Conch $6.00 Diced conch marinated in a lime sauce with a selection of vegetables, herbs, and spices.

Main Fresh catch of the day $15.00 Grilled and served with vegetables, breadfruit, plantains, and rice & beans.

Dessert Mango Cheese Cake $5.00 WINE LIST HIGHLIGHTS Sparkling Lunetta, Prosecco $6.00 glass $28.00 bottle White Fronteria, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc $4.95 glass Red Fronteria, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon $4.95 glass

CHAMREST@CANDW.KY // 345-949-7882 6:30AM – 10:00PM DAILY // DINE IN OR TAKEOUT // SUNDAYS UNTIL 5:00PM

DINING & NIGHTLIFE

GRAND CAYMAN

Dining Guide THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE TOP 20 RESTAURANTS IN CAYMAN

buffets and a weekly seafood bufet in a relaxed and friendly Caribbean atmosphere.

THE WESTIN GRAND CAYMAN Located in the heart of

Seven Mile Beach, The Westin Grand Cayman [945-3800] has four fantastic restaurants ranging from upscale to a toesin-the-sand beach bar with live local entertainment.

CATCH RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE Overlooking Morgan’s

SHOWCASING MENUS AND WINE LISTS EASY TO USE

ASK YOUR CONCIERGE FOR A COPY TODAY!

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Harbour, Catch Restaurant and Lounge [949-4321] serves fresh, locally caught seafood fused with regional favourites as well as an a la carte Sunday brunch on their waterfront patio.

AGUA RESTAUR ANT AND LOUNGE Located in the heart of

Seven Mile Beach, Agua [9492482] is inspired by the sea and serves a unique international

menu drawn from the restaurant’s international team of staf as well as an extensive wine list, and vegan and gluten-free menus.

CASANOVA’S BY THE SEA

Overlooking the George Town waterfront, Casanova’s By he Sea [949-7633] serves authentic and delicious Italian cuisine along with fresh seafood and an extensive wine list, all with genuine Italian hospitality and a breathtaking view of the sea.

GUY HARVEY’S ISLAND GRILL

On George Town Harbour Guy Harvey’s Island Grill [9469000] ofers delightful seafood as well as French and West Indian cuisine while showcasing Guy Harvey’s renowned marine art; for something more casual visit their downstairs bar, Crudo for refreshments with a view and their cigar bar Stogies lets you kick back with a Cuban.

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After DARK Grand Cayman’s Top Late Night Spots

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rand Cayman’s nightlife is a unique combination of sand between your toes and club style lounges ofering the latest house and chart-topping hits.

It’s an ever-changing scene so check with your concierge for the latest.

Royal Palms is a casual beach bar during the day and turns into one of the busiest night spots on the island. Wednesday is ‘Industry’ night with drink specials and DJ; Friday nights feature two diferent DJs - island beats on the patio and house/lounge music in the inside lounge; and Saturday nights are South Beach style with both a DJ and live music.

Whiskey Mist is located in the Strand Shopping Centre and has 4 bars side by side within it (Irish pub, sports bar, a cosy family room, and the main venue). he main venue hosts live music and Epic Party Night on Friday and live music on Saturdays.

Obar is a popular nightclub that has been a local hotspot for over 10 years. Located on the 2nd loor of Queens Court, it is open Monday through Friday. Friday nights you’ll ind a full dance loor with 2 for 1 drink specials. here is a cover charge but minimal dress code - lips lops and shorts allowed.

Lillies is an upscale and sophisticated late night lounge and nightclub located in the Strand Shopping Centre. It’s only open on Fridays, when it’s packed tight, and select Saturday nights. here is a cover charge and dress code in efect. he Warehouse is new to the club scene, playing mostly house music and hosting international DJs. hey’re only open Friday nights and for special events (such as the Full Moon After Party). Entrance to the club is via Lillies, and there is a cover charge.

No matter your preference and type of vibe, there’s something for everyone here.

And as the island is so small, most of the hotspots are located within a close distance of each other. You can always start at one, and if you want a change of scenery, hop in a cab and head to the next hotspot.

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WELLNESS & Weddings

MEDICAL TOURISM, RELAXATION & WEDDINGS IN PARADISE

WELLNESS & WEDDINGS

HEALTH CITY Cayman Islands

The Future of Medical Tourism

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ealth City Cayman Islands has brought far more than just a new health facility to the Cayman Islands; its opening marked the start of a new direction for the jurisdiction’s economy as a whole, kick-starting the advent of medical tourism (destination healthcare) as a very real third pillar to Cayman’s existing tourism and inancial services industries.

BACKGROUND TO THE FACILITY Initially developed by Dr Devi Shetty, world-renowned cardiologist, philanthropist and, perhaps most famously, personal physician to the late Mother heresa, Health City Cayman Islands is styled on existing models of healthcare facilities created in Dr Shetty’s homeland of India. Observing a fundamental lack of healthcare for India’s poorest inhabitants, over two decades ago Dr Shetty set out to revolutionise India’s healthcare through his Narayana Health group, which now oversees 26 hospitals. As a result, millions now have access to afordable high quality, super

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speciality tertiary healthcare in India.

Translating that vision to the West required a strong commitment by the Cayman Islands Government to the project and a willingness by the island as a whole to embrace the new concept. Grand Cayman was chosen as the location for Dr Shetty’s new project due to a variety of advantages this jurisdiction has over its competitors, including proximity to the US with excellent light links, stable governance as a British Overseas Territory and a professional workforce and infrastructure, not to mention a warm tropical climate that is a particular boost for patients recuperating from surgery. All of these advantages made Cayman the perfect location for a medical tourism centre, with the aim of ofering a irst class medical service to patients from North and Latin America, the rest of the Caribbean and locally as well.

WHY IT WORKS Health City Cayman Islands operates under the same premise as its sister medical facilities in India, in that it seeks to provide the

highest quality healthcare at afordable prices, hence the attraction for patients living overseas, as well as residents.

Employing some of the world’s most experienced physicians in their particular area of speciality, Health City seeks to deliver some of the world’s best outcomes when it comes to the tertiary services ofered. At the same time, it has a costefective pricing structure, brought about by a number of factors, including operating eiciencies, lean management and leveraging technologies to reduced costs for the patient.

Telemedicine is incorporated into the care of patients’ pre and post procedures. Most importantly, Health City has a transparent costing system, only charging one rate for a procedure. here are no hidden or extra fees for anesthesiologists and other doctors, hospital room rates, and so on.

A NEW BEGINNING On April 2, 2014, Health City Cayman Islands irst opened its doors, in partnership with the largest non-proit health system in North America, Ascension, a faith-based healthcare organisation headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. Health City began providing quality and afordable healthcare

in its world-class, state-of-the-art facility in East End, Grand Cayman. Operating under the gold seal of approval from Joint Commission International, Health City can conirm it ofers the same level of healthcare as would be expected in North America.

In this current early stage of its phased development, Health City offers a 101bed hospital that specialises in cardiac surgery, cardiology, orthopaedics and sports medicine, pulmonology, medical oncology, spine surgery, bariatric surgery and paediatric endocrinology. Health City will eventually become a large hospital complex with 2,000 beds planned to be implemented over the next 10 to 15 years.

A TRUE MEDICAL PIONEER Even though the facility has only been in operation for just over two years, it has already been able to perform a series of medical ‘irsts’ for the jurisdiction, and sometimes for the region as a whole. Many of these pioneering medical achievements have helped local Cayman residents to lead more comfortable and healthier lives as a result. For example, soon after opening in 2014, Health City surgeons performed the very irst open heart bypass surgery,

valve replacement in this jurisdiction and successfully conducted an artiicial heart pump (LVAD ) surgery which was the irst in the Caribbean.

Since then, Health City has become one of the very few hospitals around the world that can perform computer navigated orthopaedic surgery on knees and other joints. Health City was probably one of the irst hospitals and groups of orthopaedic surgeons in the Caribbean to have the capability and

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expertise to perform computer navigated surgeries, a huge milestone for the facility.

The first ever Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) undertaken in the English-speaking Caribbean region was also completed at Health City. he TAVI procedure is performed only on patients who are not suitable for open-heart surgery and takes the form of minimally invasive surgery that replaces the valve without removing the old damaged valve.

Also, for the first time in the Caribbean region, Senior Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist at Health City, Dr Ravi Kishore, performed a procedure called renal denervation on a local resident who had been diagnosed with resistant hypertension symptoms that were not being controlled by conventional treatment. he minimally invasive procedure was another breakthrough for the Islands and the region as a whole, as well as a signiicant milestone in the treatment of the patient, who had sufered from hypertension so acutely that it was severely impacting his daily life.

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CONSERVATION A PRIORITY As well as becoming a shining example of a pioneering, for ward-think ing facility as far as its medical services are concerned, Health City also places great importance on ensuring its facility is sustainable environmentally. Its commitments in this respect are focused on where the facility believes it can make the most diference: water stewardship, energy and waste management.

Initiatives implemented by the facility to conserve energy and reduce wastage include water harvesting, conservation and reuse for non-potable and irrigation purposes. In this way, an incredible 3.6 million gallons of water were saved in 2015 alone, while 2.7 million gallons of sewage eff luent was diverted from ground disposal. In the same year, a waste reduction and landfill diversion initiative, which included recycling and on-site medical waste treatment, was also introduced, with 60 per cent of total waste being diverted from landills as a result.

To conser ve electricit y Hea lth City’s infrastructure includes a building management monitoring system, as well as an HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system. Energy savings for 2015 were over 2 million kWh saved as a result, with just under 145,000 gallons of diesel and 3.5 million pounds of carbon saved.

SOLID FUTURE PLANNED Over the next 10 to 15 years, plans are in place to expand the hospital to its full 2,000bed capacity, and to build an adjoining hotel for patients to stay before their procedures and also for family members. The hotel is expected to feature 185 rooms with an anticipated opening date in 2017. he process is also underway to begin its residential and commercial development, and the early stages of design are underway for its retirement assisted-living community.

Health City looks forward to growing its services so that more patients can beneit from this world class facility.

hen deciding on a destination to which to escape, the Cayman Islands is a nobrainer. From its luxurious crystal clear waters to its white sandy beaches and endless days of sunshine; it is an oasis which allows you to escape your bustling schedule and the chaos that may be your mind. In the quest to ind a place in the world where you can come back to yourself; the Cayman Islands speak out not only to your mind but your body and your soul. his slice of paradise may seem small on the map, but it has a lot to ofer to your wellbeing. After all, isn’t that one of the greatest mysteries of life?

Finding our way to perfect wellness.

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BODY Being active is one of the cornerstones of health. Whether you are just starting your itness journey or have an already established routine, the Cayman Islands ofer a wide variety of activities to meet all your itness needs. Gym enthusiast?

Cross Fit junkie? No problem! here are various itness facilities on the island and one most likely near you. Love to cycle? Take the day, hire a bike and explore a part of the island with West Bay Loop Bike Tours [939-0911]. Prefer to keep to the sand you are on a beach vacation after all? Daily walks along the award winning Seven Mile Beach may be exactly what you need. And if you are feeling a little more adventurous, there is always getting out into the blue and onto a paddle-board! Recreational paddleboarding is rapidly gaining popularity and not only does it ofer stunning views and fun, but it’s also a great workout for your core. Vitamin Sea Cayman Islands [9250450] provides a variety of paddle boarding classes from beginners to advanced oneon-one sessions and even paddle boarding yoga! And for those who would like to experience something a little more magical, why not try out full moon paddle sessions?

Regardless of how you do it, this island will ofer you an opportunity to get back in touch with your body.

Restoring Your Body, Mind and Soul

By Stellerie Noyons, RD

de-stress and to ind that calm you have been missing out on for so long. Without even trying, Cayman ofers that in the form of its laid-back culture and easy-going nature. But you may want to take it a step further and try out the soothing, restorative practice of yoga.

Rooftop yoga, Hot yoga, Power yoga, Flow yoga or the more meditative Yin yoga are all classes ofered by Bliss Living Yoga [9499642]. Allowing for yogis of all levels, this studio creates a space that will inspire your practice and will help you to release any stress or heaviness, as well as allow you to reconnect with yourself. Many of the resorts also ofer yoga as part of their spa or gym programmes, including the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort, and the Wyndham Reef Resort Grand Cayman. As the sun rises and sets on each new day while you are here, allow yourself to breathe in the fresh air and breathe out any worries you may have.

SOUL Restoring your mind-body MIND Of course focusing on our bodies is only one aspect of inding balance. In fact, more and more it has come to light that our minds play a signiicantly important role in our daily wellbeing. You vacation to relax, to

connection won’t happen without also focusing on the restoration of your soul.

Luckily for you, you don’t have to go far to ind something that will suit your needs.

It may be in the form of being pampered:

allowing yourself to relax and be revitalised from head to toe. he Cayman Islands ofers some of the world’s best spas, all of which are set out to treat you with techniques from ancient cultures from all around the world. A perfect example is Body Works [949-6485], a spa that focuses on providing exactly what you need by ofering a wide variety of massages and beauty therapy treatments using only the most sustainable, natural and efective products on your skin. Every one of us requires something unique to ill our souls and for you, it may mean getting more in touch with nature and letting the calming sounds of the ocean heal you. If this is the case, experiencing the sea on the back of a horse may just be what you need. Spirit of the West ofers horseback rides along the beaches of the island as well as swim expeditions, where you and your horse become one as you enter the cool waters of the Caribbean.

Whatever form of nourishing your soul may need, the Cayman Islands will be able to ofer you an opportunity to do so.

Whether the purpose of your vacation in the Cayman Islands is relaxation, adventure or restoration, there is no doubt that you will leave this island feeling better than when you arrived.

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WELLNESS & WEDDINGS

WEDDINGS The Ultimate Wedding Destination

By Juliette (Heath) Ebanks, Five Star Events Cayman

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in Paradise

oasting miles of coral sandy beaches, year-round hot sunny climates, cosmopolitan living at its best, low crime rates and some of the best diving in the world, it’s no great surprise that more and more couples are choosing Grand Cayman as the ideal setting for their destination wedding.

Whether couples are looking to hold a small and intimate wedding for two or a luxurious couture wedding for 500+ guests, Grand Cayman can accommodate every wedding dream and not only turn it into a reality but exceed every couples’ expectations for their special day.

With a multitude of professional service providers and breathtaking venues available on the island, couples are truly spoiled for choice. he famous and award-winning Seven Mile Beach is a popular choice for destination weddings as it ofers an idyllic ceremony backdrop for couples, with crystal blue waters and majestic sunsets that are ideal for sunset wedding pictures. Many smaller groups opt to get married on the

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beach where they are staying and then go on to a separate reception venue. Some condominiums and hotels also allow for smaller groups to hold their receptions right there on the beach which is a great option for welcome parties.

Cayman is one of the only Caribbean Islands where you are permitted to arrive and get married the same day, making it ideal for couples arriving on cruise ships or couples who have limited time that wish to marry on the island.

VENUES here are endless stunning places to choose from for wedding ceremonies and receptions alike. For an intimate ceremony, you could choose from one of the many quiet “public” beaches or any of the world class restaurants that can host both your ceremony and reception right on the waterfront. In addition to the island’s extensive selection of restaurants, condominiums, and hotels, couples have the option of many incredible private beach front residences where they can stay for the duration of their trip

allowing weddings and receptions to be held right there on the property. For larger groups, there are fantastic options including magniicent ballrooms, the historic Pedro St. James Castle, which boasts panoramic ocean views, the beautiful private garden setting of Sunset Bay… the choices are simply endless.

SERVICE PROVIDERS Cayman has an incredible variety of wedding professionals all of whom work together to ensure that every last detail of each wedding is planned and executed to perfection. From highly sought after world class photographers, internationally known Steel Pan players as well as a host of other amazing musicians, bands, DJs, lorists, hair & makeup artists, rental and transportation companies and, of course, wedding planners!

Whether couples are looking for an extravagant couture destination wedding in a luxury setting with lavish decor or a small intimate family wedding on a quiet beach, Cayman is truly the ultimate destination wedding paradise.

UNDERWATER BLISS

By Katie O’Neill

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’d have to describe my underwater wedding as magical from the ver y beginning. It all started when I came to Cayman to dive with a friend. I fell in love from the very first dive – not with my future husband but with the incredible diving experience, I enjoyed each time I slipped on my SCUBA gear and went under. It’s easy to fall in love with such an amazing array of coral and sea life. I met my husband John Ferguson on a later dive here and yes, you might say I fell in love then as well – this time with him!

It seemed only right that when we decided to wed we would hold the ceremony underwater. To be a proper wedding we arranged to have all the thing s a bride and groom typically require –a gown and veil, a tuxedo for him, a bouquet, attendants, a photographer, videographer, vows to be witnessed by guests, etc. All these things came together at the base of the Mermaid Statue that sits at 65’ below the sea offshore from Sunset House in Grand Cayman.

Although divers typically

use hand signals to communicate, we decided to use laminated wedding vows underwater. We turned to our boat captain, Patrick Weir, to preside over the nuptials in the beautiful setting. My fulllength wedding dress stayed down in the current due to the drapery weights sewn around its bottom hem. The mermaid held her hand over our heads as if to bless the union.

The ceremony had just star ted when the Atlantis submarine came to us and, to our delight, decided to stay put and watch it all unfold.

The por thole windows of the submarine were filled with smiling faces as they watched us exchange vows and a kiss, and even toss my bouquet toward their submerged vessel.

Our friends had come to expect this kind of behaviour from us so everyone thought it was an awesome idea that was carried out well. It was so romantic to be able to circle the submarine as our way of ‘walking down the aisle’ – but actually, we simply floated down the aisle afterwards, in wedded bliss.

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R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E

REAL ESTATE & Finance

R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E

Then & NOW

By Jan Tomkins, Azure Realty

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A BRIEF HISTORY OF REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT ON SEVEN MILE BEACH

(Water Colours), and a larger number at seven (Caribbean Club, Beachcomber, etc.).

he real estate market on Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach has seen many changes and much growth over the last 40 years.

Where once only a single story condo or bungalow existed, you will now find a luxury seven, eight, or even ten story tower. his transformation has not been rapid and has occurred steadily over a 40-year period. he country’s building codes and planning laws have always strived to keep development at sustainable levels. he single story limit gave way to three stories, and it was only many decades later that ive stories were permitted. he law allowing seven stories was next, although modiied relatively quickly to allow today’s ten story limit on the Seven Mile Beach.

Currently, there is only a single complex at the maximum allowable ten levels (Kimpton Seaire Resort & Spa), a single at nine level

SUPPLY AND DEMAND Following a strong last quarter of 2015, the island’s real estate industry has seen continued strength in the mid to upper priced properties in the area. In the irst six months of 2016, there has been a follow through in demand for mid-level (US $700k- US $1 Million) to upper level (US $1.5 Million – US $5 Million) properties on the beach. For properties in these speciic price ranges, Seven Mile Beach is sufering a shortage of supply as 30 properties have sold in the last 6 months with sales prices ranging from US $725K to US $4.7 Million. As of writing, there are 56 properties for sale within the full length of Seven Mile Beach, and they range from US $665K up to US $13.5 Million.

For those of us counting cost per foot, the vast majority of the properties on Seven

R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E

Mile Beach are being ofered in the range of US $1,200 to US $1,500 per sq.ft. Local realtors expect to see continued upward movement in pricing based on the limited supply and, as new projects raise the bar in stories, quality, and amenities, higher asking prices per square foot will surely follow.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS he newer developments located in the heart of Seven Mile Beach, including the Caribbean Club, Wa t e r C o l o u r s , Wa t e r s E d g e , Me r i d i a n, Beachcomber, and the Ritz-Carlton, continue to be the most popular complexes for purchasers. At these complexes speciically, vendors are listing at and obtaining higher prices for their luxury condos then elsewhere in the area. he development boom continues with Dart Realty’s ever expanding Camana Bay, revamping of the Beach Suites/Hyatt property, and the opening of the Kimpton Seaire Resort + Spa. he muchanticipated boutique resort opened in November 2016 and is the latest luxury residence to open on the beachfront. he Kimpton Residences, an integral part of the complex, are available for purchase and include a multitude of layouts, from studios all the

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R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E

way up to 4 bedroom units. Pricing ranges between US $725K and US $7.1 Million, and sales have been strong since the start. he rebranding of the iconic Treasure Island property at the southern end of SMB to a Ma rga ritaville Resort is progressing well and is slated to open by Dec ember 2016 . T he add it ion of Margaritaville’s rooms will be a very timely and needed addition to island wide room inventory, helping to replace the rooms lost to the closing of the Beach Suites and cover rising demand as visitors to the island continue to increase.

As development along the Seven Mile Beach corridor continues, there are still

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some condos available in smaller and more private three story complexes, such as Mandalay Bay or Regal Beach. he future for these less busy and more reasonably priced units looks great, even as developers eye them for the next 7 or 10 story redevelopment project.

A s this sk y ward-reaching development trend continues, we’re happy to report there hasn’t been any change to the undying fact that Grand Cayman is still one of the most charming, beautiful, and safe islands in the Caribbean. here are still properties available for purchase on the world famous Seven Mile Beach and we invite you to stake your claim to your piece of paradise.

R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E

A WORLD LEADER IN Financial Services

By Jude Scott, CEO, Cayman Finance

T

he Cayman Islands has long been regarded a world’s premier global financial hub through client-centric market leadership in prominent inancial sectors, and longstanding relationships with sophisticated international clients.

The Cayman Islands f inancia l services industry plays an important role in the global inancial market by eiciently connecting law abiding users and providers of investment capital and inancing around the world - benefitting developed and developing countries.

In the face of constant change and pressure on the global regulatory landscape,the jurisdiction’s success has been cemented by its ability to strike the right balance between efective oversight and minimising unnecessary impediments to legitimate business. And the Cayman Islands constantly looks to evolve, anticipate and meet the ever changing needs of its global clients.

Integral to the international inancial economy, Cayman provides significant beneits to countries around the world and to the smooth operation of global capital markets. In particular, Cayman beneits onshore jurisdictions by facilitating more competitive international trade and enabling efective inward investment to help grow their economies.

AWARD WINNING JURISDICTION In 2015 Cayman’s inancial services industry was the recipient of a number of prestigious international awards. he Banker Magazine ranked the Cayman Islands, Top Specialized Financial Centre, for the seventh consecutive year. Cayman was also voted Best Hedge Fund Services Jurisdiction in the 2015 Hedgeweek Global Awards, and at the 2015 US Captive Services Awards, the Cayman Islands was awarded the top prize in the 2015 Ofshore Captive Domicile category.

hese prestigious industry awards relect the recognition from our clients, peers and the industry, of our high quality and experienced service providers, innovative capabilities, and legislative and regulatory balance.

FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY Clients are at the centre of the Cayman Islands inancial services industry. hey are at the core of everything we do, and this approach has been central to our success as a leading international inancial centre.

Our industry is led by first rate service providers within our investment funds and asset management, banking, insurance, capital markets, and trust sectors and world class iduciary, legal and accounting service providers across the industry.

The combined efforts of Industry represented by Cayman Finance, Government and the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority ensure that the inancial products and services are consistently delivered to meet or exceed our international clients’ expectations through excellence, innovation and balance.

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R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E WHY CAYMAN? There are many factors that determine Cayman’s world class reputation as leading international inancial centre, among them: The quality and experience of our professional service providers

One of the most inf luential factors in the Cayman Islands success is the presence of service providers that are among the best in the world in the areas of legal, accounting, advisory, management, administration and iduciary services.

An appropriate legislative and regulatory framework

Striking the right balance in regulation remains one of our greatest advantages as a jurisdiction. We have a reputation for being able to respond quickly with legislation to meet client needs. We have a demonstrably strong track record for thinking globally and acting locally in response to international inancial services initiatives.

The country’s financial services industry is very well regulated and the Cayman Islands subscribes to various international regulatory standards. Indeed, several independent reviews of the country’s financial services industry by the CFATF, IMF and OECD Global Forum on Taxation demonstrate that it has a level of regulation that meets or exceeds that of most of the major OECD economies.

Our success in the inancial services arena would not have been possible without strict adherence to global standards in the areas of inancial regulation and cross border cooperation. he Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) is represented in various global bodies such as the Group of International

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Financial Centre Supervisors (GIFCS), Caribbean Group of Banking Supervisors (CGBS); International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS); and International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO); among others.

Tax transparency and cross border cooperation

he Cayman Islands is a strong partner in combatting global financial crime. Leading the way for tax transparency and information exchange, the Cayman Islands has consistently maintained its practices to meet robust, balanced and globally implemented standards for regulation and cross border cooperation. The Cayman Islands government, its regulator, the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority, and private industry, have worked continuously with overseas governments and international authorities to ensure Cayman is trusted as a well regulated, cooperative and transparent jurisdiction.

T he C ay m a n I sl a nd s cooperates with many cross border initiatives to assist in the ight against tax evasion. hese include being a signatory to the European Savings Directive, US and UK FATCA, the OECD’s Common Reporting Standards.

The commitment of the Cayman Islands government and the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA)

As an industry, the relationship between Cayman Finance, the Cayman Islands government and CIMA, the country’s financial services regulator, has been a hallmark of the jurisdiction’s success as it has allowed us to respond swiftly to changes in the marketplace. Working together, Cayman Finance, the Cayman

Business Calendar: NOVEMBER 2016 November 29 th – December 1st IMAC Cayman Captive Forum

OCTOBER 2017 Annual Anti-Money Laundering Compliance and Financial Crime Conference

FEBRUARY 2017 February 2nd Cayman Economic Outlook Annual Conference

Mourant Ozannes’s International Trusts & Private Client Conference

February 15th – 17th Cayman Alternative Investment Summit APRIL 2017 April 23rd – 26th GAIM Ops Cayman

Islands government and CIMA provide insight into Cayman’s current endeavors, as well as into the future services that will increase our commercial appeal and our reputation as a well regulated jurisdiction.

Our innovative approach to developing products and services that benefit the global market

We have a strong innovative approach that sees client feedback turned swiftly into legislative changes and new products, such as the recent Limited Liability Companies legislation that will create a multitude of options at the fund level for holding investments, among other uses.

Neutral Platform

The Cayman Islands enables parties from around the world who are domiciled in countries that may have differing laws, regulations, tax structures and customs to benefit from doing business with each other using Cayman as an efficient and efective global inancial hub.

There are no direct taxes

CFA Society Investment Forum NOVEMBER 2017 Hedge Funds Care Cayman Annual Gala November 28th – 30th IMAC Cayman Captive Forum

(income, property or corporate) in the Cayman Islands. his has been the case for the country’s entire modern history. The absence of any direct taxes provides a tax neutral domicile, which is an added benefit to many clients. Clients in turn are responsible for complying with their tax regimes in their home country in accordance with the respective rules.

Stability

he Cayman Islands is a British overseas territory that has maintained a very stable economic and political climate throughout its history. The country has its own democratically elected Parliament, which has consistently maintained responsibility for domestic afairs including iscal matters. Cayman also operates its own judicial system, including a separate division within the Grand Court to deal with commercial disputes, which is based on English common law principles. he Cayman Islands Government prudently manages its affairs and operates with a budget surplus.

Simones YFE Art Gallery

Cayman Brac

Spot Bay

North East Bay Peter’s Cave

Texaco Terminal

The Eldemire House

Bobby Point Long Beach Little Cayman Brac North East Point

Lighthouse

Dock La Esparanzabar

The Bight

Bamboo Bay

Sch. Tibbetts Turn

The Moorings

Mallarb's Point

Mission Home Creek Mission Home

Foster Land

The Bluff

Battle Ground

Blow Holes

Pollard Bay

Watering Place

Spotland Plantations

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Brac Parrot Reserve Cayman Breakers

Half Way Ground Deadman's Point National Trust Visitor Centre

Brac Haven Villas

Cayman Brac Museum

Stake Bay

Deep Well Hawksbill Bay

Cemetery The Splits Star Island Restaurant

Barracudas Bar

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Brac Caribbean Condos

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Coral Gables

Fisherman's Rock

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Rum Point

Stingray City Sandbar

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Salt Creek

Finger Cay Road

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Over The Edge Restaurant Long Point

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Rogers Wreck Point

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Ironshore Flat

Malportas Pond

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OLD ROBIN ROAD

Little Bluff

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Foster’s Express

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Morritt's Tortuga Club

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Colliers Point

Cayman Crystal Caves

Colliers Pond Colliers Bay

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Mastic Trail

AUSTIN CONOLLY DRIVE

Colliers Cay The Mountain

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Gun Bay Heritage Beach

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Mrs. Vivine’s Kitchen

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Gun Bay Sparrowhawk Point Bombay Chopsticks

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Cottage Point Blow Holes

Half Moon Bay

The White House Grand Cayman

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Pease Bay

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School

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Spot Bay

Bobby Point

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ACCOMMODATION CAYMAN VILLAS, p144 Cayman Villas, established in 1970 and located on island, is the Cayman Islands’ premier vacation rental agency that specializes in oceanfront villas and apartments which can be found in all three islands and ranging from small & modest to palatial seven bedroom mansions. www. caymanvillas.com KIMPTON SEAFIRE RESORT AND SPA, p147 Opened in November, this 385 room, 5-star hotel is the latest addition to the Cayman Islands landscape. Located on 500 feet of Seven Mile Beach, there are four beautiful restaurants including Ave, Avecita and Coccoloba to complement the spa, pool and winding gardens.

RITZ-CARLTON GRAND CAYMAN, Inside Back Cover The Ritz-Carlton offers the ultimate in island luxury.

From contemporary island accommodations to an enchanting local art walk, and from the world-renowned La Prairie Spa to the enticing call of Seven Mile Beach, guests can savour worldclass dining, shopping and the amazing all-ages activities – the #1-rated resort in the Caribbean.

VILLAS OF THE GALLEON, p56 Villas of the Galleon boasts luxurious Caribbeanstyle condominiums that are centrally located on world-famous Seven Mile Beach. They are in an enviable location, and offer a perfect setting for your Cayman holiday vacation, wedding, or honeymoon. Their selection of one, two and three bedroom villas are all fully equipped and each has its own private balcony or patio.

ACTIVITIES (LAND) CAMANA BAY, p7 Located just steps from Grand Cayman’s world famous Seven Mile Beach, the lively town of Camana Bay is a must-see destination for visitors. At the heart of Camana Bay is a bustling Town Centre with world-class shopping and dining, family-friendly entertainment, local experiences, regular events, unique attractions and lush outdoor spaces.

CAYMAN ISLANDS BREWERY TOUR, p71 Cayman has its own national brewery which produces several different beers. Visit the Cayman Islands Brewery and take a tour to taste all the beers fresh from the source, and buy gifts and beer from the retail store. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and tours are offered Monday through Friday.

CAYMAN TURTLE FARM, p65 At the Cayman Turtle Farm you can swim with turtles in a lagoon full of colorful marine life.

Come nose to nose with sharks and other predators of the sea. Explore a free light zone illed with local and exotic birds, or plunge down the Turtle Twister Waterslide.

MAJESTIC TOURS, p70 Majestic Tours is the premier transportation and tour company in Grand Cayman. All their employees are uniformed, professionally trained and attend certiication courses so that they are tourism ambassadors ready to assist you. Together they insure that Majestic Tours offers the premier transportation service in Grand Cayman. Whatever direction you are heading..... Majestic Tours knows the way.

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NATIONAL GALLERY OF THE CAYMAN ISLANDS, p73 An inclusive gathering place which honors Cayman’s artistic heritage, celebrates art and provides inspiring learning experiences for the public. Exhibiting up to six temporary exhibitions annually, home of the National Art Collection and host of over 70 monthly art happenings, it is at the heart of the Cayman Islands’ vibrant art scene.

NORTH SOUND GOLF CLUB, p70 North Sound Golf Club is the only 18-hole championship golf course in the Cayman Islands. A par 71, 6605-yard course offering a real challenge, perennial postcard views and sun-drenched greens, the North Sound Golf Club is ideal whether you are a novice or advanced. Amenities range from practice ground to quality club rentals to a fully stocked Pro Shop.

PAMPERED PONIES, p70 Established in 1996, Pampered Ponies have gorgeous well trained horses. They are the originator of the Deep Water Swim in Grand Cayman! Find them on TripAdvisor, where they are an Award of Excellence winner! 355 Conch Point Road in West Bay. STARFISH VILLAGE, p72 Starish Village is a unique and innovative children’s enrichment centre where playful learning sparks imagination, creativity, exploration and discovery.

A magical place where children from newborn to 12 years engage in a well-supervised facility with qualiied and enthusiastic staff.

ACTIVITIES (WATER) ATLANTIS SUBMARINES, p9 With Atlantis Submarines, you don’t have to be a scuba diver to experience the underwater world. They offer unique options up to 100 feet under the sea. Get a captivating experience of a real submarine dive, in air-conditioned comfort, while discovering coral canyons and tropical ish day or night.

BLUE WATER EXCURSIONS, p80 Your vacation time is precious, so don’t waste it.

Make a day on the water with Blue Water Excursions the highlight of your trip. For half day or full day private charters for deep sea ishing, light tackle ishing, snorkeling and Stingray City, call Blue Water Excursions at 925-8738.

CAPTAIN MARVIN’S, p79 Captain Marvin’s was established in Grand Cayman in 1951 by Capt. Marvin Ebanks, who is the ‘granddaddy’ and founder of snorkel trips to the Stingray City sandbar. Now Captain Marvin’s offers an array of exciting things to do in Cayman including the legendary Stingray City tours, ishing charters, private boat rentals, as well as the popular Hell/Turtle Farm tour.

DOLPHIN DISCOVERY, p77 Swimming with Dolphins is on almost everyone’s bucket list. At Grand Cayman, visitors get the chance to fulill their dream in state of the art dolphinariums. Either at Dolphin Discovery or at Dolphin Cove, guests will have an up close experience with the most fascinating marine mammals in our planet.

GEORGE’S WATERSPORTS, p56, 80 Swim with millions of bright sparkles as you snorkel in glowing water at night in Cayman’s most exciting bioluminescence boat and snorkel tour. Also

venture to Stingray City, Barrier Reef, Starish Point, Rum Point and the mangroves in an exciting 5-stop eco tour which takes 12 people max. Free transport KITESURF CAYMAN, p80 The experts in kitesuring. They operate at Barker’s Beach- on the north shore- which is only 10-15 minutes from Seven Mile Beach and is the windiest beach in Grand Cayman. Kitesurf Cayman will pick you up from your hotel or condominium and drop you off afterwards. They provide lessons and equipment for all standards from beginner upwards and have a 5-star TripAdvisor rating.

RED SAIL SPORTS, p78 Red Sail Sports is the only premier operations delivering full-service dive and watersports services island-wide. Dive Grand Cayman’s walls, the Kittiwake wreck or Stingray City. Sail on their 65’ catamarans to the Stingray Sandbar or the Kittiwake and snorkel Cayman’s beautiful reefs. Rent kayaks, paddleboards, Wave Runners or take a thrilling banana boat ride.

SEAWORLD OBSERVATORY, p81 Sit in air-conditioned comfort ive feet below the surface of the water in a state-of-the-art semisubmarine that will take you to the wreck of the Cali as well as the famous Cheeseburger Reef where a diver feeds the ish right in front of your window.

Seaworld Observatory was designed and built speciically for Atlantis Submarines for tours of the shallow reefs around Grand Cayman.

SIX SENSES CAYMAN ADVENTURES, p79, 80 Six Senses Cayman Adventures is ranked one of the best on Trip Advisor. Their friendly staff will make sure you get the island experience you are looking for. Whether you are looking for the eco tour excursion or a private charter, Six Senses will give you day you will never forget.

WHITE SANDS WATER SPORTS, p80 One of only ive water sport companies to receive TripAdvisor’s Certiicate of Excellence Award for six years in succession. Wide variety of water sports available from scuba diving to sunrise stingray trips, Jetovator lights, jet ski tours, boat trips and more.

BUSINESS & FINANCE CONSOLIDATED WATER COMPANY LTD, p160 Consolidated Water Co. Ltd. designs, builds, operates and in some cases inances seawater reverse osmosis desalination plants and water distribution systems in several Caribbean countries, where the supply of drinking water is scarce and the use of SWRO is economically feasible. Rest assured you can safely drink the water in Cayman.

LEGAL CHAMBERS CAYMAN LTD, p149 Boutique style law irm providing legal services for local and international markets in a variety of matters like voluntary liquidations, trademark and patents registration, aircraft & vessel registration services as well as advising on local practices including trade and business license applications & renewals, real estate, will & probate matters, family law and company continuations.

CAYMAN BRAC BRAC CARIBBEAN VILLAGE #5, p45 Escape to Cayman Brac and stay in luxury. The two bedroom, spacious Caribbean style condo of Brac Caribbean Beach Village #5 has everything you need for a great vacation on the quaint, little sister island…walk out decks on to the sandy

beach, full kitchens and glorious beach views.

Find them at FlipKey.com CAYMAN BRAC MUSEUM, p45 Situated in the island’s capital, the Cayman Brac Museum is the oldest museum in the Cayman Islands. A visit to this quaint building, a living artifact itself, allows visitors to journey through the history of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. MonFri 9am-4pm, Sat 9am-12pm. Free admission.

HERITAGE HOUSE, p45 A cultural hub, Heritage House is often host to numerous cultural event s, historic exhibits, and a variety of educational programmes.

Tours of the grounds highlight the wealth of native and imported trees and lora, as well as the Lazzari leather tannery troughs. Mon-Fri 8:30am-12pm, 1-5pm.

ISLAND & NATURE TOURS, p45 Enjoy a tour of the island or one of the nature tours delivered by some experienced and knowledgeable tour guides. You might visit the 25-million-year old cave system with over 100 caves, spot some brown boobies, go for a snorkel trip or visit a Bracker in his home. Every tour is different!

LE SOLEIL D’OR, p49 Le Soleil d’Or sets a new standard in ultra-private luxury. By blending European, Mediterranean and Caribbean inluences with 5-star amenities and a 20-acre organic farm, the ultimate in perfected comfort is created at this beachside sanctuary. Here, tranquility invigorates the mind so you can be attuned to what matters most.

Reservations: +1 212-499-0099 DIVING CAYMAN DIVING, p85 Whether you’re an advanced diver or looking to get certiied, you can’t beat the experience of Cayman Diving, a PADI 5-Star Rated Diving School. Book your ultimate Cayman Diving experience with them today. Dive into “Big Adventures and Small Group Groups”.

DIVERS DOWN, p87 Since 1996 Divers Down has offered personalized daily boat dives to the amazing walls, reefs and wrecks (including the Kittiwake) of Cayman as well as Stingray City adventures and night dives.

Their full service PADI training department can teach Discover Scuba all the way up to Divemaster in a friendly, professional environment.

Customized private charters available at competitive rates.

DON FOSTERS DIVE CAYMAN, p84 At Casuarina Point, on the waterfront in George Town. Daily 1 & 2 tank dives, shore diving, night dives, Stingray City trips, Kittiwake dive and snorkel trips, Resort Courses, PADI certiications, state of the art boats, on-site training pool, friendly knowledgeable staff, and a full souvenir and gift shop. Excellent dive package rates.

THE LOBSTER POT DIVE CENTER, p84 The 5 Star PADI Dive Center provides exceptional dive training for beginners to Divemasters.

Situated on the waterfront in George Town, it offers boat trips with small groups for a personalized experience. It also boasts a stunning reef, perfect for shore diving and snorkeling, as well as full equipment rental, night diving, and a gift shop.

REAL ESTATE AZURE REALTY LIMITED, p145 Azure Realty Limited, located in Galleria Plaza on Seven Mile Beach, brings new ideas to the real estate market in the Cayman Islands. A boutique agency with a local focus, Azure will also help manage your worldwide expectations. Their Agents always strive to provide outstanding customer service with the utmost discretion.

ENGEL & VÖLKERS CAYMAN ISLANDS, p143 In September 2016 Capital Realty joined forces with the leading international real estate company Engel & Völkers, whose world-wide network and premium listings, combined with Capital Realty’s highly competent Cayman team, make a formidable partnership of market knowledge, customer service and global premium real estate. Engel & Völkers Cayman Islands is a proud member of CIREBA and the MLS. THE RESIDENCES AT SEAFIRE RESORT, p147 The newest luxury oceanfront condo development on Seven Mile Beach with 62 residences ranging from studios to four-bedrooms in a 10-storey building on 12-acres, with two pools, a private owners’ rooftop terrace and access to all the a”enities of the adjacent Ki”pton Seaire Resort & Spa. Priced between $1M-$8M. TESSA HYDES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, p144 One of Cayman’s premier Rental/Property Management companies, known for bringing passion, knowledge, and drive to all they do. They put the same into their real estate sales, matching you to your dream home, and ensuring vendors get the best value for their home.

RESTAURANTS AGUA, p129 Agua, open 7 days a week, is a lavor ”ecca in Cayman. Whether you dine at Agua for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch, you wi““ ind a variety of food like none other. Enjoy seating inside or out while trying their delectable menu or sipping on their custom cocktails.

BEACH HOUSE, p131 The Beach House is The Westin’s signature four-diamond restaurant. Modern American cuisine with inluences fro” the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Asia come together in a ce“ebration of lavours in one of Grand Cay”an’s most inspired beachfront settings offering breathtaking views of Seven Mile Beach.

CASANOVA’S BY THE SEA, p124 Indulge your senses at Grand Cayman’s favorite Ita“ian Trattoria, featuring the inest in Ita“ian cuisine and fresh seafood creations. Casanova’s welcomes groups of all sizes and is family-friendly with a team that caters to your heart’s desire!

Enjoy the stunning vista of the Caribbean Sea, right on the water, or in air-conditioned comfort.

CATCH, p129 With inviting sea views and tables under the stars, Catch is a fantastic spot to enjoy the wonders of the island and daily fresh catch brought in right from their pier. Catch has a wide range of choices on their menu, innovative cocktails and a wine list that is not to be missed!

CAYMAN DINING GUIDE, p128 The deinitive guide to Cay”an’s very best p“aces to eat. Clearly formatted for ease of use, the guide

gives a lavor for what each restaurant has to offer, including menu and wine list highlights, chef’s recommendations and all the other information you will need to make an informed dining decision.

CHAMPION HOUSE, p127 This is the place where locals dine and enjoy local Caymanian food at local prices. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You won’t get these dishes back ho”e and they are de“icious – ackee and codish, jerk pork, turtle steak or turtle stew, cow’s feet, curried goat, conch steaks, rum cake and cassava cake to name a few. Open daily 6.30am-10pm (Sundays till 5pm).

corporate group incentive events located in Bodden Town, the original capital of Grand Cayman.

TIKI BEACH, p121 Tiki Beach features classic tropical island grill cuisine and signature drinks from all over the Caribbean.

Relax and enjoy the island state of mind by the water’s edge or in one of the private Cabanas.

Feeling adventurous? Take advantage of the watersport and beach recreation facilities.

SHOPPING

FERDINAND’S, p131 A “Caribbean Casual” restaurant focusing on local lavours. The ”enu features a co”fort food approach to Caribbean cuisine with delectable items like braised short ribs, jerk chicken pot pie and trufle ”ac and cheese. With stunning views of Seven Mile Beach, Ferdinand’s also offers the island’s most famous Sunday Brunch.

BALACLAVA JEWELLERS, p107 Many of their precious jewellery pieces are rarely found elsewhere in the world. The workshop is where the magical artistry truly happens – innovative creations, top quality design and ”ateria“s, and superb crafts”anship. Magniicent diamonds, breathtaking coloured gemstones or mysterious South Sea pearls combined with precious gold or platinum- the rarest of all. You will ind the” at Ba“ac“ava Jewe““ers.

GELATO & CO, p115 Gelato & Co., in Camana Bay, produces gelato (Italian ice cream) daily in house with only the freshest ingredients (no preservatives or artiicia“ lavorings). They a“so serve sorbets, created with local fruits, which are entirely fat and dairy free and other delicious, non-frozen treats. Open 7 days a week up to 11 pm.

GEMS INTERNATIONAL, p101 Now with three locations in George Town, Gems International is one of the fastest growing jewelry brands in the Caribbean. Their success is built on delivering quality items to their customers at exceptional prices. Visit their loose diamond center in which you can select the perfect diamond and create your own fully customized engagement ring.

GRAND OLD HOUSE, p122-123, 138 Grand Old House, a legend of the island established in 1908, retains the charm of the past yet caters to the present and future. With a panoramic waterfront seaside terrace, colonial style indoor dining, ive private roo”s, award winning wine list, Cuban cigar collection and live music, it is a must for romantic dinners, spectacular weddings and business events.

KIRK FREEPORT, Inside Front Cover, p1, 2-3, 13, Back Cover Kirk Freeport has been a premier retailer of duty-free jewellery, watches, fragrances, leather, crystal and china, and accessories in the Cayman Islands since 1972. The Kirkconnell family has owned the company for six generations, and now have 23 locations, where they stock the widest range of duty-free products in the Caribbean and are recognised as a world-class marketplace. Kirk Freeport is the oficia“ Ro“ex retai“er of the Cay”an Islands and carries a wide range of the world’s most sought-after watch and jewellery brands, including Breitling, TAG Heuer, Cartier, Omega, Patek Philippe, Panerai, David Yurman, Marco Bicego, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, and much more. For store locations, visit www.kirkfreeport.com

GUY HARVEY’S ISLAND GRILL, p128 Guy Harvey’s Island Grill features a selection of popular West Indies and French entrees served in a comfortable setting overlooking George Town’s picturesque harbour. The decor is accented by an exclusive collection of artwork from renowned marine wildlife artist Guy Harvey. The atmosphere is as spectacular as the cuisine.

OSETRA BAY, p120 At the new Osetra Bay they prepare and serve only the freshest, authentic Caribbean cuisine. The restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere on the oceanside, reasonable prices and terriic Cay”anian hospita“ity.

The ”enu is i““ed with creative Caribbean surprises and traditional favourites.

RISTORANTE PRIMA AT THE ROYAL PALMS BEACH CLUB, p125 Ristorante Prima brings a light touch, bold lavors and a beautifu“ presentation. Dine in complimentary private cabanas on the sand, the air conditioned second loor over“ooking the sea or the oceanfront patio. Prima offers one of the most extensive selections of wines by the glass and signature cocktails created by award winning bartenders, Prima is open Tuesday-Saturday 5:00pm-9:30pm.

THE WHITE HOUSE, p121 The White House offers a waterfront venue for dining, relaxation and beach lounging in a breathtaking waterfront setting. A great location for weddings, private events, cocktail receptions and

KIRK MARKET, p103 Kirk Market offers a wide selection of international, gourmet, organic, natural, gluten-free and special dietary foods in addition to conventional name brand grocery items. Kirk Market features one of the island’s freshest salad bars and a hot bar that serves local and international dishes. Kirk Pharmacy is also located within Kirk Market.

ISLAND JEWELLERS, p4-5 Is“and Jewe““ers (est 1978) is the p“ace to ind everything, from the simple to the spectacular.

With brands ranging from Pandora, Alex and Ani and Swarovski to Hearts On Fire, Hermes and Ulysse Nardin, there is something for everyone.

With locations in George Town, Camana Bay, Ki”pton Seaire and the airport they ”ake it easy ind the perfect gift.

MAGNUM JEWELLERS p11 Magnum Jewellers’ owner Harry Chandi ensures the inest qua“ity purchases and persona““y guarantees your complete satisfaction. Magnum is your source for high-end watches. If you are looking for exquisite diamonds, emeralds, pearls, rubies, sapphires or other ine ge”stones, Magnu” Jewelers has what you are looking for.

PENHA, p17 In the center of George Town, find their three stores carrying luxury brands such as Estee Lauder, Clinique, M.A.C Boutique, Lancome, Victoria’s Secret and major fragrances like Chanel, Tom Ford, Dior, Gucci, Boss, Versace, Burberry, Boucheron, Bulgari, Givenchy, Issey Miyake, Narciso & many more.

ROCKY’S DIAMOND GALLERY, p109 Rocky’s specialises in creating jewellery that speaks for themselves. Honesty backed with customer service is their greatest virtue.

A family owned jewelry store with years of experience in custom jewelry, Rocky’s Diamonds is the most recommended jewelry store in Cayman Islands with a maximum 5-star review on TripAdvisor.

SAND ANGELS, p116-117 Sand Angels is your passport to style with this season’s hottest new arrivals from around the world in swimwear, resort wear and accessories to suit all body types; with bra-sized, body control, one piece and bikini separates - from beach chic to super yacht glamour.

SILHOUETTE, p113 Silhouette is Cayman’s premier intimate apparel boutique offering the finest selection of brands and sizes for both women and men. Their professionally trained bra fitters are sure to find the perfect fitting undergarments to boost your self-esteem and enhance your Silhouette!

TORTUGA RUM COMPANY, p105 Founded as the Tortuga Rum Company in the Cayman Islands in 1984, today Tortuga International spans the Caribbean with bakeries and operations in Grand Cayman, Barbados, Jamaica and the Bahamas, and a sa“es and distribution centre in Mia”i. Visit their factory to see where it all started.

LITTLE CAYMAN CENTRAL CARIBBEAN MARINE INSTITUTE, p32 CCMI has celebrated 10 amazing years on Little Cayman and has established itself as the premier Marine Research Institute in the region. Focusing on research, education and conservation CCMI has deve“oped the irst cora“ nursery in the Cayman Islands and continues to study and eradicate invasive Lionish.

SOUTHERN CROSS CLUB, p38-39 The casually-sophisticated Southern Cross Club Fish, Dive and Kite Resort is Little Cayman’s original resort. It features 14 beachfront bungalows with a top-rated diving, ishing and kiting operation. A unique b“end of rusticity and elegance, the resort is often described as “Barefoot Luxury”. Guests can expect friendly, diligent service, delicious food and inviting rooms with breath-taking views.

TRANSPORTATION BUDGET RENT A CAR, p159 It would be a shame not to see the many attractions Grand Cayman has to offer and Budget Rent-A-Car has one of the newest leets available and the lowest prices. Whether you are looking for a low-priced economy car, a sporty SUV or a large 9-seater van, Budget has your requirements covered.

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C I TA D I R E C T O R Y ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Bay Club 345-945-4728 www.aquabayclub.com Beachcomber Condominiums 345-943-6500 www.beachcomber1.com Caribbean Club 345-623-4500 www.caribclub.com Casa Caribe Condominiums 345-945-4287 www.casacaribecayman.com Cayman Club 345-945-5258 www.thecaymanclub.com Cayman Condos 800-999-1338 www.cicondos.com Cayman Villas 345-945-4144 www.caymanvillas.com Christopher Columbus 345-945-4354 www.christophercolumbuscondos.com Colonial Club 345-945-4660 www.thecolonialclub.com Coral Stone Club 345-945-5820 www.coralstoneclub.com Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort 345-949-0088 www.marriottgrandcayman.com Grand Cayman Villas and Condos 345-946-9524 www.grandcaymanvillas.net Kimpton Seaire Resort & Spa 345-746-0000 www.seaireresortandspa.com Lacovia Condos 345-949-7599 www.lacovia.com Luxury Cayman Villas 844-Go-Cayman www.luxurycaymanvillas.com Margaritaville Beach Resort 345-640-6400 www.margaritavilleresort grandcayman.com Pirates Point Resort 345-948-1010 www.piratespointresort.com Plantana Condos 345-945-4430 www.plantanacayman.com Seven Mile Beach Resort & Club 345-949-0332 www.7mile.ky Silver Sands Condominiums 345-949-3343 www.silversandscayman.com Southern Cross Club

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345-948-1099 www.southerncrossclub.com Sunset House 345-949-7111 www.sunsethouse.com Sunshine Suites Resort 345-949-3000 www.sunshinesuites.com Tamarind Bay Condominiums 345-949-4593 www.tamarindbaygrandcayman.com The Anchorage Condominiums 345-945-4088 www.theanchoragecayman.com The Grandview Condos 345-945-4511 www.grandviewcondos.com The Heritage Club 345-945-4993 www.heritageclubcayman.com The Meridian 345-945-4002 www.meridian.ky The Renaissance 345-949-8246 www.caymanrenaissancevillas.com The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com/grandcayman The Westin Grand Cayman 345-945-3800 www.westingrandcayman.com The Wyndham Reef Resort 345-640-3100 www.wyndhamcayman.com Turtle Nest Inn 345-947-8665 www.turtlenestinn.net Villas of the Galleon 345-945-4433 www.villasofthegalleon.com

C.L. Flowers & Sons 345-949-5299 www.lowersblock.ky

Guy Harvey’s Gallery and Shoppe 345-947-8488 www.guyharvey.com/caymanislands/

Simply Computers 345-916-1238 www.simplycomputers.ky

Capital Realty Ltd. 345-623-1400 www.capitalrealty.com.ky

Health City Cayman Islands 345-525-2039 www.healthcitycaymanislands.com

Sister Islands Tourism Association 345-916-4874 www.sita.ky

Cay Direct 345-324-1300 www.caydirect.com

Island Companies Ltd. 345-640-5200 www.islandcompaniesltd.com

Sotheby’s International Realty 345-623-1234 www.sircaymanislands.com/eng

CayFilm 888-610-5526 www.cayilm.com

Jacques Scott Group 345-949-7600 www.jacquesscott.com

STR Global 615-824-8664 fatima@str.com

Cayman Arts Festival 345-922-5550 www.caymanartsfestival.com

Jamaica Broilers Group Limited 876-907-3808 www.jamaicabroilersgroup.com

Ted Green Fragrances 345-325-2242 www.tedgreen.com

Cayman Distributors Ltd. 345-640-5200 www.caymandistributors.com

KPMG 345-949-4800 www.kpmg.ky

Cayman Enterprise City 345-945-3722 www.caymanenterprisecity.com

The Caymanian Land & Sea Cooperative Society Ltd. 345-946-8889 www.caymanlandandsea.com

Ktone 345-945-8663 www.ktone.ky

Cayman Freight Shipping Services 345-949-4977 www.seaboardmarine.com

La Mer Spa 345-949-2892 www.lamercayman.com

Cayman Islands Red Cross 345-949-9309 www.redcross.org.ky

Logic 345-745-5555 www.logic.ky

Cayman Islands Triathlon Assoc.

345-526-7000 www.triathlon.ky

Massive Equipment Rental & Sales 345-949-7990 www.massivegroup.com

Cayman National Bank 345-949-4655 www.caymannational.com

National Trust of the Cayman Islands 345-749-1121 www.iamcayman.com

Cayman National Cultural Foundation 345-949-5477 www.artscayman.org Celebrations 345-624-2044 www.celebrationsltd.com

Netclues 345-925-2222 www.netclues.com North Sound Golf Club 345-947-4653 www.northsoundclub.com

Central Caribbean Marine Institue (CCMI) 345-948-1094 www.reefresearch.org

NSN (Cayman) Ltd. 345-949-7282 cayman@northsouthnet.com

Consolidated Water Co. Ltd. 345-945-4277 www.cwco.com

Pinnacle Media Group 345-949-5111 www.pinnaclemedialtd.com

Creativent 345-916-1474 www.creativentcayman.com

Pirates Week Festival 345-949-5078 www.piratesweekfestival.com/

Dart Enterprises/Camana Bay 345-640-3500 www.camanabay.com or

Adorable Super Sitters & More 345-546-9378 adorablesupersitters@yahoo.com

Puritan Cleaners 345-949-7104 www.puritan.ky

Divers Alert Network Inc. (DAN) 919-684-2948 www.diversalertnetwork.org

RE/MAX Cayman Islands 345-949-9742 www.remax.ky

Big Daddy’s 345-945-2222 www.bigdaddys.ky

Foster’s Food Fair 345-943-8659 www.fosters-iga.com

Savage Consulting 345-326-3333 www.savage.consulting

Blackbeard’s 345-945-2222 www.blackbeards.ky

Funky Monkey 345-949-7027 www.funkymonkeycayman.com

Sign Solutions 345-943-7446 www.signsolutions.ky

Brasserie Purveyors 345-945-1815 www.brasseriecayman.com

Global Directories 345-943-4891 www.globaldirectories.com/cayman

Silver Rain Spa 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com

ALLIED Accounting Concepts 345-946-1264 acl@caymannetwork.ky Acorn Publishing 345-946-3200 www.acorn.ky Active Capital 345-640-3600 alasdair.foster@dartcayman.com

V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S

The Wick Candles & Scents 345-928-4800 www.thewickcandles.yolasite.com Tower Marketing 345-623-6700 www.tower.com.ky Underwater Supply 345-949-4812 www.underwatersupply.net West Indies Wine Company 345-525-9492 www.wiwc.ky Wineschool 3 345-938-0458 www.wineschool3.com/ ATTRACTIONS Atlantis Adventures Cayman 345-949-7700 www.caymanislandssubmarines.com Cayman Islands National Museum (345) 949-8368 www.museum.ky Cayman Spirits Company 345-546-6663 www.caymanspirits.com Cayman Turtle Centre: Island Wildlife Encounter 345-949-3894 www.turtle.ky Craft Market 345-949-6999 www.tab.ky Dolphin Cove 345-949-2378 www.DolphinCove.ky Dolphin Discovery 345-949-7946 www.dolphindiscovery.com Hell 345-949-6999 www.tab.ky/hell.html National Gallery 345-945-8111 www.nationalgallery.org.ky Pedro St. James

345-949-6999 www.pedrostjames.ky Queen Elizabeth Botanic Park II 345-949-6999 http://www.botanic-park.ky/ RESTAURANTS Abacus 345-6282 www.deckers.ky Agua Restaurant & Lounge 345-949-2482 www.agua.ky Al La Kebab (Gyro Hut LTD) 345-943-4343 www.kebab.ky Anchor & Den 345-949-0088 www.marriottgrandcayman.com Andiamo 345-943-9000 theoilos.lakkas@ritzcarlton.com

Full of Beans 345-943-2326 www.fullofbeans.ky Gino’s Pizzeria 345-943-3663 www.ginos.ky Grand Old House 345-949-9333 www.grandoldhouse.com Guy Harvey’s Island Grill 345-9469000 www.guyharveysgrill.com Hungry Horse Restaurant 345-949-8056 www.hungryhorsecayman.com Icoa Fine Foods 345-945-1915 www.icoa.ky Island Naturals 345-926-9462 www.islandnaturalscafe.com

Beach House 345-945-3800 www.westingrand cayman.com/dining/

Island Taste 345-949-1480 www.islandtastecayman.com

Blue by Eric Ripert 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com

KAROO 345-946-6633 www.deckers.ky

Burger King 345-945-5304 www.burgerking.ky

Lobster Pot Restaurant 345-949-2736 www.lobsterpot.ky

Burger Shack 345-949-2867 www.burgershack.ky

Lone Star Bar & Grill 345-945-5175 www.lonestarcayman.com

Canton Restaurant 345-945-3536 cancayholdings@gmail.com

LUCA 345-623-4550 www.luca.ky

Casanova By the Sea 345-949-7633 www.casanova.ky

Mizu 345-640-0001 www.mizucayman.com

Catch Restaurant & Lounge 345-949-4321 www.catch.ky

Pirates Point Restaurant 345-948-1010 www.piratespointresort.com

Chicken! Chicken!

345-945-2290 www.chicken2.com

Rackam’s Waterfront 345-945-3860 www.rackams.com

Cimboco 345-947-2782 www.cimboco.com

Ragazzi 345-945-3484 www.ragazzi.ky

Cracked Conch 345-945-5217 www.crackedconch.com.ky

345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com Subway 345-943-7827 www.subway.ky Sunshine Grill 345-946-5848 http://sunshinesuites.com/sunshine-grill/ Taikun 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com Thai Orchid 345-949-9755 www.thaiorchid.ky The Bistro (CJ Bistro) 345-623-6666 www.thebistro.ky The Brasserie 345-945-1815 www.brasseriecayman.com The Brooklyn Pizza & Pasta 345-640-0005 www.thebrooklyncayman.com/ The Wharf Restaurant and Bar 345-949-2231 www.wharf.ky Waterfront 345-640-0002 www.waterfrontcayman.com/ Wok N Roll 345-949-0168 www.woknroll.ky WATERSPORTS Ambassador Divers 345-949-4530 www.ambassadordivers.com Avalon Marine 345-945-5103 www.yachtworld.com/avalon

Cayman Turtle Divers 345-938-0184 www.caymanturtledivers.com

Parasailing Professionals 345-916-2953 www.parasailgrandcayman.com

Cayman University Divers 345-327-1238 www.caymanuniversitydivers.com

Pirate Divers 345-324-3271 www.piratediversgrandcayman.com

Charter Cayman 345-923-4266 www.chartercayman.com

Red Sail Sports Ltd. 345-623-5965 www.redsailcayman.com

Deep Blue Divers 945-916-1293 www.deepbluediverscayman.com

Reef Divers Ltd. 345-946-5656 www.cobaltcoast.com

Divers Down 345-945-1611 www.diversdown.net

Resort Sports (Beach Club) 345-516-8401 www.resortsportscayman.com

Divers Supply (Cayman) Ltd. 345-949-7621 www.diverssupply.ky

Seasports Diving 345-916-3261 www.seasportsdiving.com

Divers World 345-949-8128 www.diversworldcayman.com Divetech Ltd. 345-946-5658 www.divetech.com DNS Diving 345-916-2490 www.dnsdiving.com Don Foster’s Dive Cayman 345-949-5679 www.donfosters.com Eden Rock Diving Centre 345-949-7243 www.edenrockdive.com Epic Divers 345-323-3742 www.epicdivers.com

Seven Mile Watersports Ltd. 345-949-0332 www.7milediver.com Six Senses Cayman Adventures Ltd. 345-938-3303 www.sixsensescaymanadventures.com Sunset Divers 345-946-6789 www.sunsethouse.com Tortuga Divers Ltd. 345-947-2097 www.tortugadivers.com Wall to Wall Diving 345-916-6408 www.walltowalldiving.com White Sand Watersports 345-938-7263 www.whitesandwatersports.com

Go Pro Diving 345-925-9092 www.goprocayman.com

TRANSPORTATION American Airlines 345-949-0666 Nadine.Jennings@aa.com

Indepth Watersports 345-926-8604 www.indepthwatersports.com

Andy’s Rent A Car 345-949-8111 www.andys.ky

Indigo Divers 345-525-3932 www.indigodivers.com

Cathy Church’s Underwater Photo Centre 345-949-7415 www.cathychurch.com

Apex Car Rentals 345-949-4808 www.apexcayman.com

Living the Dream Divers 345-526-3483 www.livingthedreamdivers.com

Budget Rent A Car 345-949-5605 www.budgetcayman.com

Ristorante Pappagallo 345-949-1119 www.pappagallo.ky

Cayman Aggressor IV 345-949-5551 www.aggressor.com/cayman

Lobster Pot Dive Center 345-946-8685 www.lobsterpotdivecenter.com

Caribbean Marine Services 345-945-9193 cms@candw.ky

Craft Food & Beverage Co. 345-640-0004 www.craftcayman.com

Rum Point Restaurant 345-947-9412 www.rumpointclub.com

Cayman Diving Ltd. 345-916-4731 www.caymandiving.com

Moby Dick Tours 345-927-9928 www.mobydicktours.com

CICO / Avis Rent A Car 345-949-2468 www.aviscayman.com

Deckers 345-945-6600 www.deckers.ky

Schooner’s Bar & Grill 345-916-4513 anitaparsons@turtle.ky

Cayman Eco Divers 345-938-4904 www.caymanecodivers.com

Neptune’s Divers 345-945-3990 www.neptunesdivers.com

Island Air Ltd. 345-949-0241 www.islandair.ky

Duke’s Seafood & Rib Shack 345-640-0000 www.dukescayman.com

Seaharvest Restaurant 345-945-1383 www.sunsethouse.com/resort/ seaharvest-and-my-bar.htm

Cayman Islands Boat Rentals 345-949-6672 www.caymanislandsboatrentals.com

Ocean Frontiers Ltd. 345-947-0000 www.oceanfrontiers.com

Majestic Tours 345-945-1433 www.majestictours.ky

Cayman Luxury Charters Ltd. 345-938-2525 www.caymanluxurycharters.com

Off the Wall Divers 345-916-0303 www.offthewalldiverscayman.com

Webster’s Tours 345-916-2057 www.websters.ky/tours.html

Ferdinand’s 345-945-3800 www.westingrandcayman.com/dining

Seven Prime Cuts & Sunsets

Brac Scuba Shack 345-948-8472 www.bracscubashack.com Capt. Marvin’s Watersports Ltd. 345-945-6975 www.captainmarvins.com

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Useful INFORMATION ATTIRE Smart casual clothing is accepted at most, if not all restaurants. On cooler evenings, a sweater may be required.

Swimwear should be worn only on the beach, at the hotel pool or at beach bars. Public nudity, including topless sunbathing, is forbidden.

BANKS Banking hours are usually 9 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday, with some branches also open Saturday mornings. ATMs are available throughout the islands with some dispensing US dollars in addition to Cayman Islands dollars.

The exchange rate is US$1.20 = CI$1.00 and US dollars are widely accepted, although you’re likely to receive your change in CI dollars.

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CURRENCY The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands Dollar (CI$). The exchange rate is fixed to the U.S. dollar: CI$1 is US$1.25 or US$1 is CI$0.80. U.S. currency is widely accepted, as are all major credit cards (which will be charged in U.S. dollars). The change will almost always be given in Cayman Islands Dollars, even when paying in U.S. Dollars.

CUSTOMS Tourist and other visitors should declare all gifts, foods, spirits, liquor, tobacco products, and any other items in their possession, other than their ordinary wearing apparel, personal effects/ toiletries and articles of personal adornment that are reasonable for the time of their intended visit to the Cayman

Islands. Visit www.customs.gov.ky for more information.

EMERGENCIES In case of an emergency, dial 911 for fire, police, or ambulance services.

Most mobile phones allow the number to be dialled even when locked, not authorised on the mobile network, or out of credit. You can also contact emergenc y ser vices through the Universal 112 emergency number.

GOVERNMENT The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory with a Queenappointed Governor, Her Excellency the Governor Helen Kilpatrick. We also have a Legislative Assembly which is headed by a democratically elected Premier.

GRATUITIES Tipping is expected in the Cayman Islands. Most bars and restaurants will add a 15%-18% service charge to t h e b i ll a u to m a t i c a ll y a n d leave a space for an additional gratuity at your discretion. Most bills will show the cost in both CI dollars and U.S. dollars.

LANGUAGE English is the official language of the Cayman Islands. Because we are a British Overseas Territory, most spellings and pronunciations default to British English.

MARINE SAFETY AND REGULATIONS The weather changes quick ly in our region, check the weather and sea conditions frequently on both the internet (w w w.weather.gov.ky or Windguru app) and the radio (107.9 MHz). If you need a more detailed weather briefing, you can call the CI National Weather Service meteorologists at +1 (345) 945-5773 Keep up to date on marine rules and regulations in Cayman by visiting the Department of the Environment website at www.doe.ky. Stay tuned to the soon-to-be Cayman DOE Marine App (Android) or the SIREN Cayman app (iOS) for up to date information on marine laws and maps of the protected areas.

2017 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Jan. 1: New Year’s Day Jan. 23: National Heroes Day March 1: Ash Wednesday April 14: Good Friday April 17: Easter Monday May 15: Discovery Day June 12: Queen’s Birthday July 3: Constitution Day Nov. 13: Remembrance Day Dec. 25: Christmas Day Dec. 26: Boxing Day RELIGION Christianit y is the most prac tised religion in the Cayman Islands, with A nglic an, Baptis t, C atholic, and Protestant faiths among the most dominant. Because of the importance of religion in Cayman culture, many businesses and other local services are closed on Sundays. There are dozens of churches and houses of worship on all three islands.

ROAD SAFETY Note that vehicles drive on the left-

hand side of the road and wearing a seatbelt is the law. Speed limits are in miles per hour and are rigorously enforced. Cell phone use whils t driving is prohibited unless handsfree. Note that there is a new 25 mph speed limit on West Bay Road.

Speed limits vary with the maximum speed limit on Grand Cayman of 50 mph and 25 mph on Lit tle Cayman. For those unfamiliar with roundabout s (or circle s), please refer to the traffic safety section on www.caymanroads.com.

A v i s i t o r ’s d r i v i n g l i c e n s e is mandatory and can be obtained from any car rental agenc y or at the De par tment of Vehic le and Drivers Licensing on presentation of a valid driver’s license from your place of residence.

Pl e a s e u s e t h e d e s i g n a t e d crosswalks when crossing the road.

Remember to look to your right, wait for the traffic lights and signals to change, and for cars to come to a stop before crossing.

POPULATION The population of the Cayman Islands is 60,414 (2015). 58,218 live on Grand Cayman. 2,196 live in the Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman POST OFFICE There are 15 post offices located throughout the Cayman Islands – 9 on Grand Cayman, 5 on Cayman Brac, and 1 on Little Cayman. Most post offices on Grand Cayman are open 8:30 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 12:30 pm on Saturday. Most post offices on the Sister Islands are open 9 am to 3:30 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am to 11:30 am on Saturdays. For more information, please visit caymanpost.gov.ky

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U S E F U L I N F O R M AT I O N TELEPHONE SERVICES • International operator: 0 • Directory enquiries: 411 • Dialing Codes: Cayman Islands phone numbers are 7 digits and don’t require you to dial the 345 area code first.

• North America, Canada or Caribbean: 1 + area code + 7 digit number • To dial other countries: 011 + country code + telephone number TIME ZONE The C ay man Island s are on Eas ter n Standard Time and remain at -5 UTC. Cayman doesn’t adjust for daylight savings time and from March to November we are one hour behind east coast cities such as Miami, New York and Toronto.

TRANSPORTATION Public bus routes run from George Town to the areas of West Bay/ Seven Mile Beach, Prospect, Savannah, Bodden Town, East End, and North Side. Fares start at CI$1.50. Note that Cayman buses are minivans rather than the full-size buses you may be used to seeing elsewhere.

Taxis are widely available on the 3 islands, including at Owen Rober ts International Air por t, all resor t s and grocery stores. Fares are set at government f i xed r ate s and var y d e pending on destination. Car rental companies serving the Cayman Islands include Andy’s, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, and Thrifty.

In addition to motor vehicles, you can also rent scooters, bicycles, or boats to explore all that the islands have to offer.

UTILITIES Cayman uses the standard voltage of 120 V. The power sockets used are of the type A/B typically found in the US and Canada.

Adapter s and conver ter s are widely available. The water in Cayman is safe to drink. However, bottled water is available for purchase throughout the islands.

WEATHER The average temperatures in the winter range between 72-86 degrees Fahrenheit and 80-90 degrees in the summer. Humidity levels tend to stay constant through the year, with the highest levels experienced during the summer rainy season.

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